TexAppeal March 2014

March 2014

TEXAS F L AV O R

BY THE SLICE

The Sandwich GENERATION

ARTISAN CHEESES Lorena cheesemaker turns his passion into cheesy business

SMART MONEY Elementary lessons for kids

Beauty in Bloom Tyler - The Rose Capital of the World 4

OCTOBER 2013 TEX APPEAL

Bi naa B Bin B na Bina Bin

In the rrealm ealm of e environmentally nvir onmentally conscious consciou us design, one name sta stands an nds apart: Thomas Bina Bina, a designer known as much for f timeless style, as liva livable ble fur furnishings nishings crafted by b y hand fr from om sustainably harvested and rreclaimed eclaimed woods s. Juxtaposing war m pati nas with rrough ough and rrenewed enew w wed woods, his designs le woods. warm patinas enewed lend a sense of histtory ory to any space space, e, though never appearr dated. The artistic use o off tone ensur ensures es every one-of-a-kind piece is a focal point able to blend beautifully with others.

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MARCH 2014 TEX APPEAL

2100 South 61st St. • Temple, TX • 254.935.2720 5400 Franklin Ave. • Waco, TX • 254.732.3000

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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MARCH 2014

Features 30

TEXAS FLAVOR

ANYWAY YOU SLICE IT Cheesemaker in Lorena creates artisan cheeses from fresh Texas ingredients

by TERESA K. HERNANDEZ

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CHIC & CHEESY

A quick guide to the best cheeses to serve with helpful tips on how to pair them.

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FEELING THE SQUEEZE

SANDWICH GENERATION The fastest growing segements of the population is facing unexpected financial challenges as they care for both aging parents children

by WENDY SLEDD

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MONEY SMARTS BEGINS WITH ABCS

ELEMENTARY LIFE LESSONS FOR CHILDREN It is never too early to start teaching children the value of money and how to save

by VALERIE L. VALDEZ 4

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Departments

MARCH 2014

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NEIGHBOR

WELL FED HEAD

TexTalk

Nan Ray brings Texas Swing Music to Central Texas for 18 years

56 March 2014

TEXAS F L AV O R

BY THE SLICE

EDITOR’S LETTER The Sandwich GENERATION

ARTISAN CHEESES Lorena cheesemaker turns his passion into cheesy business

SMART MONEY Elementary lessons for kids

Beauty in Bloom Tyler - The Rose Capital of the World 4

OCTOBER 2013 TEX APPEAL

ONTHECOVER Photography PRISCILLA Z PHOTOGRAPHY Stylist ALDA XHINDI On location at PIGNETTI’S RESTAURANT, Temple

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FLAVOUR

MONEY MATTERS CENTRAL TEXAS FINANCIAL EXPERTS

TexTalk

Easy recipes with flavor and fizz

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TexTalk

BEAUTY

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TexTalk

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ADVERTISER’S INDEX

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BARBWIRED

Food for Thought

by KACTUS KATE

TexTalk

CALENDAR

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CONTRIBUTORS

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Ashley Clapper

STAY CONNECTED

TexTalk

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SCENE

A Night in Tuscany.

The 20th Annual Caring Ball

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TEXHealth

BATTLING THE BLEMISH

by RAJESH REDDY

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TEXFit

MOVE IT

by SUSAN CORNETTE

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SPIRITS

HISTORY IN BLOOM

TexTalk

The Shamrocker

TEXAdventures Tyler - The Rose Capital of the World

by AZEITA TAYLOR

716 Indian Trail Ste 220 Harker Heights 254.393.0182 paintingwithatwist.com/harker-heights

Revive

Repair

7348 W. Adams Avenue Ste 400, Temple 254.228.5548 paintingwithatwist.com/temple

Renew

NEW LOCATION! 2919 Market Loop - Temple Next Door To BloomingďŹ elds Florist

Treatments For: Dark Eye Circles Persistent Acne Scars & Stretch Marks Cellulite Get Your Body Fix Resize Your Thighs Blast Belly Fat Sculpt Lean Arms

FLAT ABS FAST Free Consultation By Appointment 254.778.0328 TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Editor’s Letter

Tex Appeal Life & Style in Central Texas

Published by FRANK MAYBORN ENTERPRISES, INC. KILLEEN DAILY HERALD 1809 Florence Rd., Killeen, TX 76540

Herbivores eat Plants.

Carnivores eat meat.

Locavores eat local.

TEMPLE DAILY TELEGRAM 10 S. Third Street, Temple, TX 76501 Publisher SUE MAYBORN Director LUCIE FRALICKS Editor TERESA K. HERNANDEZ Copy Editors KRISTI JOHNSON LEE JAMES

What kind of foodie are you?

It doesn’t matter how you classify yourself, Central Texas is a foodie’s paradise. You can always find a great place to dine and plenty of fresh ingredients at your fingertips- produce, meats, and dairy products, and GO TEXAS food specialties that are all Texas grown, raised, and produced.

On pretty weekends this spring, get out of the house and do some day-tripping. Expand your horizons and take a “world taste tour.” No passport required! You can experience Caribbean, German, Italian, Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Polish, Korean, Thai, Indian, Philippine, and Vietnamese without even leaving Bell County.

Spice up weekly dinners at home with some exciting new flavors. For inspiration, stop in and shop at one of the many ethnic food markets in the area. Host a dinner party and impress your guests with an exotic menu of flavorful dishes.

Become a locavore and discover a world of fun shopping local. Eating and shopping locally is not only healthy for YOU, but also the local economy. Each time you purchase fresh produce or buy a gallon of milk at a farmer’s market-, you’re supporting your neighbors and small business owners.

Do you have a favorite place to eat that is home-grown (locally-owned and operated)?

If so, we’d love to hear about it. In your email/letter be sure to include why it’s your favorite place to eat and tell us about your favorite dish on the menu.

Eat, grow, shop local!

Teresa K. Hernandez Editor | thernandez@texppealmag.com

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Graphic Designer/Photography JULIE NABOURS Graphic Designer CHRISTEEN CLARK Contributing Photographers PRISCILLA Z PHOTOGRAPHY, ANN VANDERGRIFF, JULIE NABOURS Contributing Writers AZEITA TAYLOR, VALERIE L. VALDEZ, RAJESH REDDY, MD, SUSAN CORNETTE Advertising 254.774.5264 Tex Appeal Magazine is published monthly by Frank Mayborn Enterprises,Inc., 10 S. Third Street, Temple, TX 76501. The cover and content of Tex Appeal Magazine is fully protected by copyright and cannot be reproduced in any manner without prior written permission.

Subscriptions: For the United States, $24 per year, 12 issues. Mail check to P.O. Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114.

Questions about subscriptions, call 254.774.5264 Postmaster: Send address changes to: Tex Appeal Magazine, P.O. Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114.

How to contact us: Advertising: Contact Lucie Fralicks, at 254.774.5264 or via email at lfralicks@texappealmag.com Editorial: Contact Teresa K. Hernandez, at 512.734.6912 or via email at thernandez@texappealmag.com

Stay Connected We Hear You… A few thoughts from our readers. Keep the letters coming!

STAY CONNECTED Bell Extension Education Association members: Vernice Black, Suzanne Smith, Rose Crawford and LaVelle Parsons are all smiles as they display the quilt that will be available by a drawing on March 29 at the ninth annual association style show and potato luncheon.

Thank you for including our upcoming spring style show and luncheon in the March TexTalk calendar. I always look forward to each issue and to finding someone or something interesting.

­—MAXINE KALKBRENNE

took it through the window.

I hope it makes you smile.

—JANET REISSER I enjoyed all of the pet shots in your February issue, however I was disappointed there was not one single standard poodle among them. I have had three standard poodles over the last 25 years and I know for sure they are the best, smartest and most handsome pets. I have attached a photo of our newest poodle, Trey.

—WILLIAM PINKSTON

CUTEST PETS IN CENTRAL TEXAS I wanted to thank you for including Dixie in the Cutest Pets in Central Texas feature in February. I was delighted. I have attached a photo of a squirrel having breakfast. My husband

We want to hear from you

Email us at thernandez@texappealmag.com. Or send letters to Tex Appeal-Stay Connected, PO Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114. Letters addressed to TEX APPEAL become the property of the magazine, and it owns all rights to their use. Letter may be edited for clarity and length.

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Contributors 1 Dr. Rajesh Reddy, MD

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received his medical degree from the American International School of Medicine in Guyana, followed by a family practice residency at Mercer University School of Medicine in Savannah, Georgia. Dr. Reddy joined Metroplex Clinic Physicians in 2012, followed by Dr. Brady Luttrell in 2013. Reddy and Luttrell are boardcertified in family medicine and certified in the delivery of aesthetic laser procedures from both the National Laser Institute and the Clearskin Institute of Laser Aesthetics, where they also received certification in injectable therapy including Botox and Restylane.

2 Valerie L. Valdez

has taught theater arts and film classes at Central Texas College in Killeen since 2009. An accomplished writer of stage plays and screenplays, she earned her M.A. in theater arts from Texas State University in 1991.Val served as a marketing director for architecture firms in Austin for a decade. From 1981 to 1991, she worked as a producer and director of training films for the U.S. Army at Fort Hood and was also a program director at NBC and PBS affiliates for eight years.

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3 Azeita Taylor

is a freelance writer and former managing editor of a bi-weekly news publication.

She currently volunteers as public relations coordinator for Patriot Outdoor Adventures-Texas Division, an organization dedicated to helping wounded warriors and their families through outdoor experiences like hunting and fishing.

5 Wendy Sledd 3

Turn Your Feelings Into Flowers!

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publsihed her first article in a national magazine at age 19, Wendy Sledd has served as reporter, writer, researcher, editor, producer, anchor and news director for print and electronic media for nearly 30 years. She has earned numerous awards for journalism, including a regional “Edward R. Murrow” award for investigative reporting for a story that later aired on CNN and the BBC and was carried in newspapers across the country. Wendy has also appeared on “Good Morning, America” and the “Today” show. She is married to an active-duty soldier with 30 years of service, and they are currently stationed at Fort Hood.

6 Susan Cornette, CPT

believes “success should not be measured by a scale.” Her goal is to teach clients, regardless of their age or fitness level, the benefits of exercise and how to make their health a priority in their lifestyle. Working closely with Scott & White physicians, Susan develops safe and effective strength training programs for their patients who need rehabilitation for back injuries. She holds numerous certifications, including: AFAA group fitness certification, 1992; Les Mills Body Pump certification 2010, RPM certification 2011, advanced instructor for RPM 2013; certified personal trainer AFAA 1993, certified personal trainer SCW 2010, boot camp cert 2010, TRX instructor training, 2011 and is the previous owner of Exhale Fitness.

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Let your voice be heard 10

MARCH 2014 TEX APPEAL

ARE YOU ARE A WRITER, ILLUSTRATOR OR PHOTOGRAPHER? WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU. Please forward your work samples and resume to editor, Teresa K. Hernandez at thernandez@texappealmag.com.

TEXTalk

11 neighbor / 16 flavour / 18 beauty / 19 scene / 21 spirits / 22 well fed head / 24 calendar

Fiddling with Love

By TERESA K. HERNANDEZ Photography by PRISCILLA Z PHOTOGRAPHY

There are words, sights, sounds and smells that trigger your senses and create an automatic association to something familiar. You hear the word TEXAS, you see an oil derrick. You smell mesquite smoke, TEXAS BBQ. You see a cowboy on a horse, TEXAS. And when you hear the music of Bob Wills and The Texas Playboys with their twin and triple fiddles, AAH-HAWW! YOU KNOW ITS TEXAS! TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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TEXTalk neighbor When Nan Ray, founder of the Texas Western Swing Heritage Association of Bell County, hears Western Swing a tidal wave of things rush to mind. However, first and foremost always is love, and her late husband of 57 years, Durwood “Mitz” Ray. Immediately after him comes all the wonderful music, talented musicians, family memories, and many friends she has met over the last 18 years of hosting the Bell County Texas Western Swing Fiddlers Showcase. For Nan, a native Texan, Western Swing embodies everything there is about her, including her family and Texas lifestyle - living and working - on their Central Texas ranch.

The Texas Western Swing Heritage Association of Bell County is a nonprofit organization established to promote and preserve Texas Western Swing music heritage by providing an entertaining and educational Western Swing Showcase.

Every year the TWSHA unites some of the most talented musicians in western swing, including Grammy award winners, hall of fame musicians, world champion fiddlers and renowned recording artists to perform in one premier showcase.

“My husband Mitz loved the fiddle and western swing. He was the reason I started this event. I knew he would enjoy it. It’s been a lot of hard work over the years, especially in the very beginning. But it’s been worth it. I’ve enjoyed it. And the entire family has been involved ever since day one. Even the children when they were little sat around this very table and helped me prepare mailings 12

MARCH 2014 TEX APPEAL

and stuffed e nve l o p e s , worked at the event taking tickets.

“They have always been a big part of it. And they know everything there is to know about it and exactly how I like things done. They could run the showcase without me if they had to,” said Nan laughing, “And they will tell you, I have always been very particular about how I wanted things done and they had to do them my way.”

Nan still remembers the first showcase like it was yesterday. “I was so nervous, all I could think about was, what if nobody shows up?”

Then we had an unexpected cold front blow in at the last minute and the temperatures dropped below freezing. The wind was howling. It was just awful. I remember pulling into the dark parking lot at the Expo Center and my heart just dropped--it was sleeting. I remember sitting there in my car thinking, ‘All that hard work for nothing! Nobody is going to DARE venture out tonight in this weather.’

“The roads were already bad and, of course, they were only going to get worse as the night went on. I didn’t even know what to do. I finally decided to go on in, thinking we would have to cancel. But just as I was getting out of the car, another car pulled up alongside me and the driver asked me if I knew where the Western Swing Fiddle Showcase was being held.

“In that moment all my worries left and I grabbed my boxes of tickets and headed for the door. We ended up having a great turn out and I realized then just how much the music really meant to people. And if we could pull in a crowd in that kind of weather— everything was going to be just fine.”

Nan not only hand-picks all of the musicians personally,to ensure only “the best of the best” take the stage; she stands at the door to greet and thank each and every guest

Talk

neighbor TEX

for their support.

“I think that is very important and I have done it every year since we started. There aren’t many places left these days where you’re greeted or thanked for your business,” Nan said. “I am old-fashioned. You take care of your guests and you do everything in your power to make them feel comfortable and welcome. That’s just how we were raised growing up. We may not have had much, or anything fancy, but we always made sure the house was clean and comfortable for our

guests and we shared everything we had with them.

“Each year we have a large attendance.

Of course, I also have my regulars who come every year and they never miss a year. Even now that some of them have moved out of the area-even out of state, they still come back every year. I just love seeing everyone.

It’s like a big reunion. It takes a lot of hard work, but in the end it’s always worth it. We have top-rated musicians and the best music you’ll ever hear.”

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Put some

Spring

TEXTalk neighbor

in your hair

Kim Hay

The Salons at Tuscan Square 5297 S. 31st Street, Temple Suite 103-A 254.913.9509

Texas Western Swing History Ranch life is hard work and even lonely, as it usually means living far out in the country in isolated locations, miles from the nearest neighbor or town. As a result, music has always played an instrumental role within ruralagriculture communities. Like a magnet, it pulls people out and brings them together, creating friendships and bonds that last for lifetimes.

Texas Monthly magazine once shared an accurate portrayal of the origins of western swing music and its significance to rural communities, “Springtime Saturday night in the 30s and 40s in small-town Texas meant big dance. Entire communities would ride their horses or drive their trucks to the local dance hall, fill the dance floor, then shuffle and waltz the working part of the week away.” This is why western swing music is What makes Bob Holler? so deeply rooted within the The “King of Texas Swing” Bob Wills,was known for his character and culture of Texas. hollering and wisecracking.

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MARCH 2014 TEX APPEAL

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neighbor TEX Western swing first began back in the 1920s, which was a very transitional period in American history. Known as the “Roaring Twenties,” this was also the Jazz Age period.

Jazz had become very popular across the country. Jazz bands typically consisted of seven to 12 musicians and they elected one member to be the band leader of the ensemble. Western swing bands also had numerous musicians- guitars, steel guitar, stand-up bass, and fiddles, so following the suit of Jazz bands they too started appointing a band leader.

In the 1930s, new technology brought the radio. This gave musicians a means of reaching more listeners and helped them gain widespread attention and created national celebrities. Now those living in the East could hear country, cowboy music from Texas and listeners in Texas or other remote locations in the West could hear music from the East. As a result, musicians became inspired by other music and soon they were creating unique blends of folk, country, cowboy, jazz, and the blues.

Combine notes of blues, jazz, folk, country, cowboy, and add some yodeling and a few Texas whoops into the mix and that’s western swing. The legendary “King of Western Swing,” Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys wasted no time incorporating the new sounds and styles into their music and as a result they quickly popularized western swing in the 1930s and 1940s.

However in 1945, Bob Wills discovered that not everyone embraced new sounds when he arrived at the Grand Ole Opry.

As he and the boys prepared to set up, the Grand Ole Opry staff refused to allow Bob’s drummer to play—drums were unheard of in country music at the time. At first, Bob refused to play at all, but then he had the drums set up behind the stage curtain. When it was time to play he hollered out, “Move those things out on stage!” Before staff could stop him, the drums were on stage and they were performing. From that moment on, country music had a beat, thanks to the King of Texas Swing Bob Wills. Needless to say, this little stunt didn’t impress the Grand Ole Opry and they never invited Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys back.

The Official State Music of Texas Western swing became the official state music of Texas on June 17, 2011, when Gov. Rick Perry signed Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 35. The following are excerpts are from Resolution No. 35: “… origins (of western swing) are firmly tied to the Lone Star State; growing out of the music that was played in the state’s small-town dance halls, the style became better known through the work of Texans Milton Brown and Bob Wills, two of the most famous and influential swing artists of all time; these pioneers formed the Light Crust Doughboys in the Fort Worth area in the early 1930s and went on to even greater fame while leading individual bands of their own… the appeal of this spirited music is its exceptional ability to get people dancing; this quality, too, is evocative of Texas, a state in which dance halls have historically been central to the social life of its communities; today, the foot-tapping tempo of western swing continues to be heard all across our state… and it is indeed a fitting symbol for the rich cultural heritage that is shared by all Texans; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the 82nd Legislature of the State of Texas hereby designate western swing as the official State Music of Texas.

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TEXTalk flavour

Easy Recipes with...

Wouldn’t you like to be a pepper too?

Crock-Pot Pulled Pork INGREDIENTS:

3-4 lb. pork loin roast pork rub 12 oz. Dr Pepper barbecue sauce to taste

Preparation:

1. Season pork roast with rub.

2. Place in slow cooker.

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MARCH 2014 TEX APPEAL

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Pour in Dr Pepper.

Cook on low 10-12 hours.

Drain most of the liquid.

Use tongs to shred pork.

Add barbecue sauce to taste.

Stir and reduce temp until serving.

Serve on buns

*Optional: for added crunch and tang, add coleslaw on the sandwich or serve on the side.

flavour and

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flavour TEX

This is how you DEW it.

Apple Dumplings INGREDIENTS:

2 whole Granny Smith apples 2 - 8 oz. cans of crescent rolls 2 sticks butter 1 ½ cup sugar 1 tsp vanilla Saigon cinnamon, for flavor 1 - 12 oz. Mountain Dew soda Photography by ANN VANDERGRIFF

PREPARATION:

1. Peel and core apples. Cut each apple into 8 slices each.

2. Roll each apple slice in a crescent roll. Place in a 9 x 13 buttered pan.

3. Melt butter, then add sugar and barely stir.

4. Add vanilla, stir, and pour entire mixture over apples.

5. Pour Mountain Dew around the edges of the pan.

6. Sprinkle with Saigon cinnamon and bake at 350° for 40 minutes.

7. Serve with ice cream drizzled with sweet pan sauce.

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TEXTalk beauty

BEAUTY IN THE

BAG

ASHLEY CLAPPER Family Law Attorney Corbin & Associates,Killeen

BEST TIP IN HER BAG “When court is in session, I have to speak very softly, which also means leaning in close to my clients. Since chewing gum is not allowed in court, I carry Lifesavers in my purse for a breath freshner.”

THE ESSENTIALS SHE CARRIES CLUMP CRUSHER EXTENSIONS LASHBLAST Fiber-stretch formula by Cover Girl builds volume and length instantly. A curved brush with a precision bristle spacing reduces clumping fo long, separated lashes.

REVLON LIPSTICK Infused with mega-moisturizers to seal in color and softness.

Ashley’s favorite shade is Rich Girl Red. VICTORIA SECRETS PERFUME Sexy Little Things Noir Tease is a flirty, playful fragrance and the perfect size for the purse.

PRENATAL GUMMY MULTIVITAMINS Nutrition is important, especially since Ashley is expecting a baby girl in June!

PALMER’S COCOA BUTTER FORMULA To prevent dry skin from frequent hand washes. Ashley carries a hand lotion in her purse. Throughout her pregnancy she has been using Palmer’s with its special blend of pure cocoa butter, vitamin E, shea butter and Bio C-Elaste. Bio C-Elaste.

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MARCH 2014 TEX APPEAL

photographs by JULIE NABOURS

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The Friends of the Temple Community Clinic recently held the 20th annual Caring Ball, themed “A Night in Tuscany,” at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic & Convention Center. This event featured a special wine-tasting and dinner catered by Waco’s Bestyett Catering and music provided by the Argyles.

The evening began with a silent and live auction and concluded with dancing until midnight. All proceeds from the event went to supporting the Temple Community Clinic.

The Temple Community Clinic Inc. is a community-based organization providing free health care to the working poor, qualified uninsured and those with overwhelming medical debt in the Bell County area since 1992. Dedicated to addressing more than just the physical needs of the patients by innovative high-quality services including health education and research, the goal of Temple Community Clinic Inc. is to be a focal point of compassion and caring in the City of Temple. The clinic staff consists of highly qualified volunteer physicians, nurses and dentists from Scott & White Memorial Hospital and Clinic and various private practices. Volunteers from community organizations and the business community assist with office responsibilities.

(1) COL Ed Higgins, Susan Higgins, Maudean Smith and Joe Smith (2) Adam and Jessica Ott (3) Jeff Ward and Nifty Gosney (4) Casey and Ryan Holler (5) Alicia and Danny Dunn (6) Joe and Katie Brading (7) Blake and Misty Stapp (8) Dawna and John Mischtian (9) Gerry and Patti Gamble

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photographs by MICHAEL MILLER/TELEGRAM

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(1) Gerry Gamble, Patti Gamble, Wendell Williams, Carolyn Williams, Michelle Fettig and Bill DiGaetano (2) James Brien, Ellen Brien, Dorothy Granfor, Jim Granfor, Susan Kamas and James Kamas (3) Chris and Lenore Chiles (4) Joel Crenshaw, Myra Crenshaw, Kimberly Scherer

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and Scott Scherer (5) Christina Marshall,

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Laura Frazier and Jessica Amos (6) Anthony and Cyndi Woytek (7) Derick Aguirre, Elizabeth Aguirre, Paul Mansour, Sarah Mansour, Kelly Hawks and Sumita Varghees (8) Helen Greenberg, Crissie Richardson, Angie Gentry, Bobby Greenberg, Cassie Campbell, Carolyn Jackson, Lauren Ratcliff and Taylor Ratcliff

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spirits TEX

Shamrocker INGREDIENTS 1 part Silver Tequila 1 part Midori 1/2 part Grand Marnier splash of orange juice I N S T RU C T I O N S Rim cocktail glass with green salt and fill with ice.

Mix ingredients in shaker.

Pour into glass and garnish with an orange slice.

M M

photograph by JULIE NABOURS

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TEXTalk well fed head

TALES FROM SALES:

Outrageous, Hilarious and True Stories from Home Sales

By Myka Allen-Johnson

Myka Allen-Johnson left her teaching job after she had her life threatened, thumb broken, and hair torn out. But that was just the warm-up routine. Now she’s here to talk about how crazy her life has been since then, after she became a real estate professional.

It’s telling that, though her very first experience with real estate (as a teen accompanying her house-hunting parents) involved encountering a dead body, Johnson is still in it to win it. In her book, Tales From Sales: Outrageous, Hilarious and True Stories From Home Sales, Johnson navigates the silly and macabre with a larger-than-life Texas attitude.

I have reviewed the true-stories-in-realestate type of book before (most recently Rosalind Russell’s); but what makes this collection different is that all these stories happened to one woman in a little Texas town called Killeen. While this singular approach does remove some of the variety, it also gives these stories the personal touch that is often missing from compilation-based books.

Johnson introduces us to characters from the bearded lady whose air conditioner was eaten by a pack of wild dogs to the godfearing mime to the woman who chewed a model home out of almost all of its fake wax fruit. Johnson also introduces us to some unique properties, from Elvis Presley’s old house to a place so soaked with cat urine that the walls had begun to yellow (she sold both).

It’s not all hilarious, though. She talks bravely through the several times she’s almost died on the job. She also includes two tear-jerking stories about military families she’s worked with (Killeen is home to Ft. Hood, one of the largest military installations in the world).

Johnson, now broker/owner of StarPointe Realty, published the book in 2013 through a print-on-demand company known as Xlibris.

As you might expect from a self-published imprint, there are a few minor errors, and the few images included are pretty lowresolution. Thankfully, Johnson includes enough moxie and humor that I’m more than willing to forgive (just don’t tell my freelancers I said that).

Reprinted from REALTOR® Magazine’s Weekly Book Scan Blog, June 2013, with permission of the National Association of REALTORS®. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved.

Meg White is the multimedia web producer for REALTOR® Magazine and administrator of the magazine’s Weekly Book Scan blog at www. theweeklybookscan.blogs.realtor.org. Contact her at mwhite@realtors.org.

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TEN BEST SELLERS FICTION The Goldfinch, by Donna Tartt. (Little, Brown.) A painting smuggled out of the Metropolitan Museum of Art after a bombing becomes a boy’s prize, guilt and burden.

The Invention of Wings, by Sue Monk Kidd. (Viking.) The relationship between a wealthy Charleston girl, Sarah Grimké, who will grow up to become a prominent abolitionist, and the slave she is given for her 11th birthday.

First Love, by James Patterson and Emily Raymond. (Little, Brown.) Sixteen-year-old Axi Moore invites her best friend, whom she secretly loves, on a road trip.

Sycamore Row, by John Grisham.

(Doubleday.) A sequel, about race and inheritance, to “A Time to Kill.”

Lost Lake, by Sarah Addison Allen. (St. Martin’s.) Characters gather at a lake in Southern Georgia.

NON-FICTION Duty, by Robert M. Gates. (Knopf.) The former defense secretary recounts his experience serving Presidents Bush and Obama during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Things that Matter, by Charles Krauthammer. (Crown Forum.) Three decades’ worth of essays from the conservative columnist.

David and Goliath, by Malcolm Gladwell.

(Little, Brown.) How dis-advantages can work in our favor; from the author of “The Tipping Point” and “Outliers.”

Killing Jesus, by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard. (Holt.) The host of “The O’Reilly Factor” recounts the events leading up to Jesus’ execution.

Lean In, by Sheryl Sandberg with Nell Scovell. (Knopf.) The chief operating officer of Facebook urges women to pursue their careers without ambivalence.

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well fed head TEX

BOOKMARKS TEMPLE AUTHOR WINS 2014 CALDECOTT MEDAL The American Library Association recently awarded Temple native Brian Flocathe the 2014 Randolph Caldecott Medal for his children’s book “Locomotive,” which he wrote and illustrated. The Randolph Caldecott Medal is awarded to the most distinguished American picture book for children for the year.

MARCH -SMALL PRESS MONTH 2 3 4 8 8 20 21 25

Dr. Seuss Day Read Across America Day National Grammar Day Girls Write Now Day National Proofreading Day World Storytelling Day National Poetry Day Tolkien Reading Day

1-7 National Ghostwriters Week 2-8 Read an E-Book Week 2-8 Return the Borrowed Books Week MARCH 1 Local Author to Sign Book on Governor Ferguson Featuring Carol O’Keefe Wilson signing her new book, In the Governor’s Shadow: The True Story of Ma and Pa Ferguson. Published

by University of North Texas Press, the book examines anew the complex story of two Bell Countians who rose to the rank of governor in the early 20th century. Bell County Museum is proud to be the home of the Ferguson Collection. Carol O’Keefe Wilson is a 1987 graduate of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, a Texas CPA, and a retired Certified Fraud Examiner. In 2010 her community’s efforts to save the Ferguson’s Temple home ignited an interest in the subject, which led to this extensive study of the governors. For her book, Wilson gathered and dissected financial statements, documents in evidence, trial

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testimony, newspaper accounts, and other source material to weave a tale of intrigue that contradicts the ideals of the Progressive Era. Open to the public. Refreshments will be served. In the Governor’s Shadow sells for $29.95 plus tax; museum members receive a 10% discount. For more information, please contact Stephanie Turnham at 254.933.5243. Bell County Museum, 201 N. Main Street, Belton.

HARKER HEIGHTS PUBLIC LIBRARY

MARCH 15 Friends of the Killeen City Library Used Book Sale Annual used book sale to benefit the Killeen City Library. Reserve sale for members only at 8-9 a.m.

General sale 9 a.m.-11:45 a.m.

Paper bag sale-12-2 p.m. $3 per bag. (bags provided by the Friends of the KCLS) Memberships are available at the door $10/family (residing in single household; maximum 2 adults.) For more information contact Beverly Kittinger at 254.547.1403 or email walkabout@hot.rr.com. Killeen Arts & Activities Center, 802 N. 2nd St., Killeen

Tuesdays Story Time 10:15 a.m.

Story Time 6:30 p.m.

Wednesdays Story Time 10:15 a.m.

BELTON-LENA ARMSTRONG PUBLIC LIBRARY 301 E. 1st Ave., 254.933.5830 Mon-Fri Tuesday Saturday

10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

COPPERAS COVE PUBLIC LIBRARY

501 S. Main St., 254.547.3826 Tuesdays Story Time 10 a.m.

Thursdays Toddler Time 10 a.m.

SALADO PUBLIC LIBRARY 1151 N. Main St., 254.947.9191 Mondays

Children’s Story Time 11 a.m.

We want to hear from local authors, clubs, and organizations who are hosting events related to books and literacy. Please submit the event title, date, a full description, and your contact information to thernandez@ texappealmag.com.

400 Indian Trail, 254.953.5491 Mondays Thursdays

Infant Lap Sit 9 a.m.

Toddler Time 9 a.m.

Family Story Time 10 a.m.

Family Story Time 6 p.m.

KILLEEN PUBLIC LIBRARY-MAIN 205 E. Church Ave., 254. 501.8990

COPPER MOUNTAIN BRANCH 3000 S. W.S. Young Drive, 254.501.7871 Mondays Story Time 5:30 p.m.

Tuesdays Story Time 10:15 a.m.

Story Time 11:15 a.m.

Wednesdays Story Time 10:15 a.m.

TEMPLE PUBLIC LIBRARY 100 W. Adams Ave., 254.298.5555 Tuesdays Baby Bookworms 11 a.m.

Wednesdays and Thursdays

Toddler Story Time 10:15 a.m.

Preschool Story Time 11:15 a.m.

Book Club 1st Monday each month 6 p.m.

Paws to Read Friendly, gentle certified therapy dogs visit regularly to sit with children as they practice reading. Paws to Read is irregularly scheduled.

To sign up, call the children’s department at 254.298.5557.

CASEY MEMORIAL LIBRARY FORT HOOD 72 761st Tank Battalion Ave, 254.287.4921 Fridays Story Time10 a.m.

Thursday* Make and Take Craft Saturday* Learning activity-math, science,

literacy, art . * activities offered once a month

*DEADLINE MARCH 6 for April submissions

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TEXTalk calendar American Red Cross Month Irish-American Heritage Month National Craft Month Women’s History Month Poison Prevention Awareness Month National Kite Month 2 Texas Independence Day 3 World Wildlife Day 3 National Anthem Day 4 Mardi Gras 7 Employee Appreciation Day 8 International Women’s Day 13 K-9 Veterans Day 15 National Quilting Day 17 St. Patrick’s Day 21 National Puppy Day 21 National Single Parent Day 29 Texas Loves the Children Day

2-8 National Consumer Protection Week 2-8 National Severe Storm

Preparedness Week 2-8 National Sleep Awareness Week 3-7 Newspaper in Education Week 7-9 National Rattlesnake Roundup 10-15 Girls Scout Week MARCH 1 18th Annual Texas Western Swing Fiddling Showcase

The Texas Western Swing Heritage Association of Belton will feature its annual music showcase to promote “Texas Born” music and Western Swing, the official music of Texas. Uniting some of the most talented musicians from across the state, performers will include Grammy winners, Hall of Fame members, Texas and World Champion Fiddlers and recording artists. Showcase concert time: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and the dance is 8 p.m. - Midnight. Admission for the afternoon performance is $20 for adults and $10 for students. Tickets for the dance are $20 for adults and $10 for students.

For more information please visit www. texaswesternswing.org or call 254.939.8390 to reserve dance tables of eight. Bell County Expo Center, 301 W Loop 121, Belton.

MARCH 1 TAKE 6 Six voices united in crystal clear harmony against a backdrop of syncopated rhythms, innovative arrangements and funky grooves bubbling into an intoxicating brew of gospel, jazz, R&B and pop. Time: 7-9 p.m. Tickets $50.

For more information contact 254.526.9090. Sponsored by Dodge Country/Freedom Jeep Chrysler, Integrity Rehab, and Metroplex Health

System. Vive Les Arts Theatre, 3401 S. W S Young Dr., Killeen.

MARCH 1-2 6th Annual “Take 190 West” Art Festival Killeen’s weeklong salute to the arts. Events include a book-writing contest for fifthgraders, 11,300 square feet of professional art on display, authors performing readings from favorite passages, and the Killeen Sculpture Contest. Admission is free. Killeen Civic & Conference Center, 3601 S. WS Young Drive, Killeen.

MARCH 2 The Army Marathon

A full and half marathon and 5K benefit veterans and their families. To register or donate, please visit www.thearmymarathon. com, or at The Army Marathon on Facebook.

Entries: full marathon $95, half marathon $65, 5K $55. Time to be determined by race. For more information or to become a sponsor, contact Ed Bandas at 210.632.2800 or email info@thearmymarathon.com.

Location Killeen and Temple.

MARCH 6 Teacher Job Fair The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor teacher job fair will be in the Lord Conference Center of the Parker Building. Employers may register online at http://careerservices. umhb.edu/cru-connection. Time: 2-3:30 p.m. University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, W 10th Ave, Belton.

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MARCH 2014 TEX APPEAL

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MARCH 8 Big Bell County Garage Sale Find hidden treasures and collectibles, electronic equipment, fabulous antiques, vintage jewelry and textiles, furniture, house wares and all-American junk at this giant flea market. Adults $3, children under 12 free. All proceeds will help the Bell County Museum fund exhibits, educational programs, and preserve the collection for residents and visitors of the Bell County region.

For information on vendor booths or how to volunteer, contact Stephanie Turnham at 254.933.5243. Bell County Expo Center, 301 W Loop 121, Belton.

MARCH 10 The Importance of the Honeybee The March gardening education series topic is “The Importance of the Honeybee” presented by Steve Hoskins of the Central Texas Beekeepers Association. Learn why honeybees are essential to our environment and what can be done to prevent their extinction. For more information contact Sarah Mylcraine at 254.953.5466. Time: 6-7 p.m. Harker Heights Activities Center, 400 Indian Trail.

MARCH 15 Market Days Enjoy buying, selling and trading in historic downtown Belton every third Saturday of the month. For more information go to www. downtownbelton.com. Time: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Downtown Historic Belton.

MARCH 14-15 The Shades of Texas Quilt Show The biennial quilt show features judged quilts of the Hoffman Fabric Challenge Travelling Show, special exhibits, such as fabric challenges and quilting bee displays, and vendors. Information about entries is available at www. cttquiltguild.org. For more information contact 254. 289.6382 or 254. 699.5920. Time: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Killeen Civic and Conference Center, 3601 S. W. S. Young Drive, Killeen.

MARCH 15 Michael Martin Murphey The Cultural Activities Center Texas Music Series presents singersongwriter Michael Martin Murphey.

In the 1960s, his first hit song “What Am I Doin’ Hangin’ Round” was recorded by the Monkees and topped the pop charts. The singer-songwriter had hits in the 1970s with “Wildfire” and “Carolina in the Pines.” He then crossed over to the country charts and had more than a dozen Top 40 singles and albums there in the 1980s. For the past 20 years, he has recorded mostly cowboy and bluegrass music, to both critical TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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TEXTalk calendar and popular acclaim. His 1990 album Cowboy Songs sold a million copies, and his 2009 album Buckaroo Blue Grass got a Grammy nomination. At age 68, Murphey still performs more than 100 shows a year, often with his son Ryan, a first-rate guitar player and the producer of Murphey’s latest albums. Murphey endures in Western music circles as an icon of sorts, having written and performed countless tunes about the cowboy life. But the Grammy nominee’s musical accomplishments stretch far beyond the prairie campfire. He highlights his versatility as a writer and performer on his latest album, Red River Drifter. Time: 7:30 p.m. For more information contact 254.773.9926 or visit www.cacarts.org. Culture Activities Center’s Frank Mayborn Auditorium, 3011 North Third St., Temple.

MARCH 16 28th Annual Silver Classic 5k Run and 3k Walk The Cen-Tex Race Series offers local runners more than a dozen races throughout the year and an annual banquet honoring the top runners in each division. Last year more than 600 runners and walkers participated in the Silver Classic, making it one of the largest in the series. Participants of the Silver Classic are chip-timed and placed in gender groups based on age. Pre-race registration and packet pick-up is from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 13 at Metroplex Hospital. The Silver Classic is the primary fundraiser for the Metroplex Wellness Department, which is dedicated to promoting health and wellness in the community through free services and educational wellness classes. Registration is $25 for general entry, $20 for Metroplex employees and active duty military. Race time: 8:30 a.m. Register at www.mplex.org.

For more information contact 254.519.8200.

Metroplex Hospital, 2201 S. Clear Creek Rd., Killeen.

MARCH 21-22 75th Annual Temple Lions Follies Show 75 YEARS IN THE MAKING: It’s the 75th annual Temple Founder Lions Club 26

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Diamond Jubilee Production of “The Lions Follies.” Three words describe this Diamond Jubilee production: funny, really funny. It’s easy to laugh when Temple businessmen George White and Dr. Gary Gosney get together. “The Lions Follies” — their 32nd collaborative effort — takes a comical look at national, state and local current events.

The follies will feature homegrown theatrics, songs, dances and door prizes. Patrons will also have access to live and silent auctions.

Doors open for the Friday performance at 6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. Doors open for the Saturday matinee at 1 p.m., show starts at 2 p.m. Tickets for the matinee shows are $5. Doors open for the Saturday evening performance at 6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m.

Tickets for the Friday and Saturday evening performances are $10. Tickets may be purchased at the Cultural Activities Center, Paper Graphics Printing, Temple Veterinary Hospital and Laura White Interior Design.

Azalee Marshall Cultural Activities Center, 3011 N 3rd St., Temple.

MARCH 21-23 Borealis Wind Quintet and pianist Leon Bates The Central Texas Orchestral Society presents this award-winning quintet performance from to 6:30 p.m. For more information contact 254.773.9926 or visit www.cacarts.org. Culture Activities Center’s Frank Mayborn Auditorium, 3011 North Third St., Temple.

MARCH 21-23 Wildflower Arts & Craft Show Weekend Enjoy a full weekend of fun: art, music and spirits in the Village of Salado.

Events include the Wildlife Art Show March 21-23; Pub Crawl at 6 p.m. March 21; Edgy Art Show & Competition at 11 a.m. March 22 at The Range at Barton House; Wildflower Concert at 9

p.m. March 21; Jazz Festival March 22 at the Tablerock Amphitheater; and a sky diving demonstration at 10 a.m. March 23. For more information on these events contact 254.947.5040 or email chamber@salado.com.

Location: Throughout the Village of Salado.

MARCH 25 13th Annual Taste of Central Texas This gala event features restaurants, caterers and bakeries from across Central Texas.

Enjoy great entertainment and live and silent auctions all to benefit and support Central Texas Youth Services for abused, neglected, homeless/runaway youths in Bell County. Tickets are tax-deductible: adults $30 and children under 12 $20. For more information visit www.tasteofcentraltexas. com. Bell County Expo Center, 301 Texas 121 Loop, Belton.

MARCH 25 Taste of Home Cooking School This event will feature great live cooking demos with top culinary specialist Jamie Dunn, fabulous recipes and simple entertaining ideas and prize giveaways. Each attendee will receive a free full-year digital subscription to one of three magazines (Taste of Home, The Family Handyman or Reader’s Digest) and a free gift bag. Tickets are available in advance at the Temple Daily Telegram, 10 South Third St. in downtown Temple, or online at www.tdtnews.com. A limited number of VIP tickets are available for $25. General admission tickets $10.

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calendar TEX Tickets also available at the door. The Taste of Home Cooking School and Don Ringler invites you to join in “Cooks Who Care.”

Bring non-perishable food items to the show on Tuesday, March 25. All food will be donated to a local food bank and benefit those in need throughout the community.

Sponsors include: Temple Daily Telegram, H-E-B, Wilsonart, Sears of Temple, Temple Mall and Don Ringler. For information, contact Courtney Bishop at 254.774.5234 or courtneyp@tdtnews.com. Time: 4-9 p.m.

Mayborn Civic & Convention Center, 3303 N. 3rd St., Temple.

MARCH 27-29 24th Annual Temple College Jazz Festival An entertaining and educational weekend of outstanding jazz will bring together top professional artists, clinicians and hundreds of college, high school, and junior high musicians for clinics, competitions and great performances at the Mary Alice Marshall Performing Arts Center,on the campus of Temple College. School performances and clinics are 8 a.m.- 5 p.m., with evening concerts at 7:30 p.m. Performances includeTemple College Vocal Jazz Ensemble followed by trumpeter Pete Rodríguez, TC Jazz Ensemble and TC Fusion featuring saxophonist Bob Mintzer, and Temple Jazz Orchestra featuring trumpeter Wayne Bergeron. Tickets: adults $20, students $5; three day-passes: adults $40, students $10.

Mary Alice Marshall Performing Arts Center, 4501 South General Bruce Dr., Temple.

MARCH 28-APRIL 6 The Mousetrap Chance leaves a group of strangers stranded in a boarding house in the middle of a snowstorm, and to make matters worse, they’re trapped with a murderer!

This ultimate murder mystery with a twisted ending has been entertaining audiences all over the world since 1952 and is

the longest continuously running show in the modern era. Times: March 28-29 at 7 p.m., April 4-5 at 7 p.m.; and April 6 at 2 p.m. For more information contact 254.526.9090. Tickets: adults $20, senior/ military $18, students $15. Sponsored by Metroplex Health System. Vive Les Arts Theatre, 3401 S. W S Young Dr., Killeen.

MARCH 29 Bell County Master Gardeners Spring Plant Sale Plan to arrive early for the best selection of perennials, vegetables, herbs, succulents, roses, and trees and to enjoy helpful Earth Kind education seminars. Time 7 a.m.-1 p.m.

All proceeds will benefit the Bell County Master Gardeners training and education programs and plants and materials used in local garden projects. For more information visit www.txmg.org/bell/ or contact rh56@ sbcglobal.net. Bell County AgriLlife Extension office, 1605 N Main St., Belton.

MARCH 29 Bell County American Heart Association Gala “Paint the Ranch Red…A Night under the Texas Stars” is a Texas Chic Gala for the American Heart Association (AHA) featuring a silent auction, cocktails, dinner by The Range at Barton House and music. All proceeds go toward the AHA to advance its not-forprofit mission of building healthier lives free from cardiovascular diseases and stroke. The

Pete Rodriguez, Bob Mintzer and Wayne Bergeron will perform at the 24th annual Temple College Jazz Festival.

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TEXTalk calendar presenting sponsor is Scott & White Heart & Vascular Institute. Additional sponsors include: Metroplex Health System, Precious Memories, Tenroc Ranch, Scott & White Health Plan, Johnson Brothers Ford Lincoln, WilBea Medical Equipment, KCEN and Clear Channel Communications. Time: 6-11 p.m. For more information contact Susan Holmes at 254.780.6039. Individual tickets are $125 or $225 per couple. Tenroc Ranch, 5471 Thomas Arnold Rd., Salado.

MARCH 29 9th Annual Luncheon with Style The Bell Extension Education Association features its annual spring style show “Styles and Smiles.” Fashions will be provided by Dillard’s of Temple and feature Bell County 4-H youths. A baked potato luncheon will precede the style show. All proceeds will be used for supporting community service and educational programs for Bell County 4-H projects, scholarships, and the Bell County Youth Fair. Advance tickets (before March 21) are adults $10, ages 7 and under $7, and are available by contacting the Bell County Extension Office 254. 933.5303 or Bell EEA members. Reserved tables are $96 for a table of 8, and are available by contacting Gayle Pomykal at 254.742.5431 or by mailing a check to Bell EEA at 4069 Red Ranger

See hand knitted, crocheted, and embroidered crafts by Austin-based artist Sara Stoke at the 6th Annual Wine & Rogue Art Fest.

Rd., Temple, TX 76501. Bell County Expo Center, 301 W Loop 121, Belton.

MARCH 29-30 6th Annual Wine & Rogue Art Fest Join us for a wonderful afternoon of wine-tasting and art. Features more than 17 wineries and a host of artists from

To list an event

around Texas. Admission is free. Tickets are available for purchase at the door: $10 for six tasting tickets & a souvenir wine glass, $5 for four additional tickets.

Children and well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome. For more information visit www.saladowinefestival.com. Salado Wine Seller, 841 N. Main St., TX.

If you would like to have your event featured in the TexTalk calendar, please email the title, date, full description of the event and activities, including the address and contact information/web address to: thernandez@texappealmag.com.

*DEADLINE MARCH 6 for April submissions

The lawn you want. Minus the work you don’t.

Only one lawn service can give you a Scotts® Lawn.

Go to ScottsLawnService.com or call 1-888-8SCOTTS (72-6887) to request a free estimate.

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MARCH 2014 TEX APPEAL

RE/MAX TEMPLE BELTON PROPERTIES 4016 S. 31st St., Ste. 200, Temple, Tx 76502

254-771-3633

Serving the Temple Area & Bell County Top Producer in Residential Real Estate Sales for the Last Three Years!

OUTSTANDING

AGENTS!

OUTSTANDING

RESULTS!

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Texas Flav

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MARCH 2014 TEX APPEAL

vor

Any way you slice it

By TERESA K. HERNANDEZ Photography by JULIE NABOURS

L

ocavore. lo-ca-vore. noun

A person who makes an effort to eat only foods that are grown, raised, or produced locally, usually within a 100mile radius of home. A food movement based on eating healthier.

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T

Take a short jaunt up the road – 21 miles north of Temple –and you’ll find an unlikely little place to spend lovely afternoons exploring and shopping. In fact, a lot of people drive right on past and never realize the treasure that awaits them just beyond their view from the highway.

Like a gem hidden in plain sight, Lorena is an artsy little town and a nugget of fun just waiting to be discovered.

Day trippers who do venture off Interstate 35 are in for a treat and will find new life breathing into this historic little country town.

Century-old storefronts have been revamped and repainted in bright, colorful shades of blue, purple, and hot pink and have created a cheerful place where creative souls and energies flow to synergize Lorena’s old-town shopping district with one-of-a-kind shops and eateries such as The Crossroads Antique Mall, The Blue Roan Café, Just For You Gift Shop, The Village Lamp-Lighter, and The Pepper West Gals porcelain art studio.

This quaint little town welcomes and endears visitors with its charming vintage appeal-old-fashioned lamp posts, large decorative planters and hanging baskets filled with colorful flowers and foliage, and inviting benches and furniture in front of some of the shops beckon guests to stop and sit for a spell. If you are starting to envision

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MARCH 2014 TEX APPEAL

Mayberry or scenes out of Norman Rockwell paintings, now you’ve got the picture.

Near the end of the street on East Center you’ll find a real “cheesy” shop that’s gained quite a reputable name for itself across Central Texas. And I am talking about REAL cheese here, folks. You won’t find any artificial colors, additives, preservatives, or emulsifying fillers in any of the handcrafted artisan cheeses at The Cheese House. This is the reason Scott Simon, cheesemaker and owner, has gained the business of so many chefs, locavores, and foodies across Central Texas.

Be forewarned and prepared to “melt” the instant you open the door to The Cheese House. The aroma of fresh-baked bread will waft out to greet you and enthrall your savory senses. Once inside, you’ll discover a remarkable inventory of large cheese wheels in assorted flavors -- all-natural, handcrafted, custom artisan blends made from only the finest, freshest, local Texas ingredients as well as an entire line of gourmet and specialty foods all made right here in Texas.

When asked about how he initially became interested in cheesemaking, Scott smiled and said, “Well I guess you could say it all began

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Cheesemaker and owner of The Texas Cheese House, Scott Simon with employee Destiny Harper.

Scott making Derby Cheddar.

Curds cut up.

with macaroni and cheese. I always made my own homemade cheese sauce for macaroni and cheese for my kids when they were young and when I did, all of the kids in the neighborhood would show up to eat. One day after a trip to the grocery store, a large bag of grated cheese got left in the car. By the time I found it the next day there was nothing left except oily liquid and yellow, gooey stuff at the bottom of the bag. I knew that wasn’t right or natural and I knew I could do better. So I started making my own cheese.”

Scott may be one of the only cheesemakers in the world to have a degree in physics and pharmacology. “I never really worked in either of those fields,” he chuckled, “I owned a records and information retrieval corporation for over 28 years. When I retired and sold it, I decided to open The Cheese House and do what I love full-time. I guess you’d say I turned my hobby into a business. So I brought all my stuff down here and started making cheese all day. Which made my wife happy—she was thrilled to get all my cheese-making stuff out of her way,” laughs Scott.

With the exception of the live cheese cultures he orders from France, everything else in his cheese is all-natural and locally grown or produced. On most Saturdays you’re likely to find Scott at his booth

in Waco at the downtown farmer’s market. However, he also frequents other markets around Central Texas. Not only does Scott sell at cheese at the farmer’s markets, but he buys his ingredients from other vendors and local farmers. One wheel of cheese he took off a rack and showed me had “Texas peppers-Scott & White farmer’s market” inscribed across the bottom of the label.

Scott uses whatever is in season when he goes to make a batch of cheese, which he credits as the key to the cheese having a unique and distinctive Texas flavor. He offers many varieties of peppered cheeses, including Texas Pepper Jack, Texas peppers, and cheddar with ghost peppers--the most infamous pepper of all. Ghost peppers originate from India and hold the official title as the world’s hottest pepper.

“I only have one rule about selling peppered cheeses—especially this one,” he said as he pulled a wedge of cheese labeled “ghost peppers” out of the glass display cooler, “I won’t sell it to you unless you try it,” he said smiling.

Cheese making is a lengthy process and one which requires great patience.

The hands-on part of the process can take place over the course of a few days or up to two weeks. However, it is the aging process that is a true test of one’s patience. The cheese must age anywhere from 6-12 months. But TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Artisan cheese and an assortment of the gourmet and specialty foods available at The Texas Cheese House.

during this process that the cheese develops its unique flavor profiles and characteristics: mild, strong, or sharp. The older the cheese, the harder the texture.

Once the cheese is done and ready to age, Scott vacuum-seals it in plastic and labels it. Then the cheese is placed on racks and stored at room temperature for 6, 8 or12 months or until it is ready to sell.

When I asked about storing it in a refrigerator, Scott explained that only dairy products that have lactose require refrigeration.

“A well-aged, hard cheese does not have lactose in it. The live cheese cultures eat the lactose out of the curds and when the cheese is pressed into the mold, the excess moisture, or whey, that contains the lactose is pressed out. What little if any moisture does remain is lost during the aging process. So even someone who is lactose-intolerant could eat this cheese.”

After he explained the racks and storage, he gave me a tour around the kitchen and showed me where he makes the cheese, one batch at a time. Each batch produces 100 pounds of cheese.

Scott’s favorite time to make cheese is in the spring. “You can taste a difference in the milk based on the season and diet of the cows.

The milk is generally sweeter and has more flavor when the grass is green. I make cheese year-round; however, I prefer to do the largest bulk of it during the spring and early summer when the milk is the best,” Scott said.

All of the milk used in his cheeses come from organic dairies in Central Texas that have grass-fed herds free of antibiotics, hormones, additives, GMO, corn, soy and preservatives. One of them, Mill-King Market & Creamery, is located just outside of Waco in the Crawford/ McGregor area. Family-owned and operated for three generations, the Mill-King dairy specializes in low-temperature pasteurized, nonhomogenized milk and cream. If you grew up on a farm or cherish the memories of fresh sweet milk, you’ll want to pick up a gallon of 34

MARCH 2014 TEX APPEAL

Scott preparing the special of the day, grilled openface cheddar, tomato and bacon sandwiches.

Mill-King at The Cheese House. You can see the rich, sweet cream that has separated and risen to the top of the milk right through the jug.

When you head to Lorena to visit The Cheese House, be sure to come hungry. The Cheese House features a daily lunch special and a menu with appetizers, sandwiches, cheeseburgers, homemade mac ’n cheese, soups, and desserts. It also has Scott’s own original creations--11 specialty grilled cheese sandwiches, including one that has macaroni and cheese on it!

And whatever you do, don’t forget to add an ice-cold bottle of Cheer wine to your order. This fresh wild cherry soda is made with style and pure cane sugar, a reminiscent of the old style fountain drinks from the past. Dublin Bottling Works also is located in Central Texas (southwestern Erath County) and features a full line of sodas in vintageinspired flavors such as orange cream, vanilla cream, black cherry, vintage cola, cherry limeade, and Texas sweet peach. They are so yummy you’ll want to grab a couple extra bottles for the trip home.

After you taste a few slices of Scott’s artisan cheeses, it becomes quite evident that he was never meant to make cheese at home as a hobby—cheese-making is his calling in life. To say Scott is a “cheese lover” is “udder-ly” insulting. Every ounce of this man soul is “cheesy.” He eats, lives, and breathes cheese.

Perhaps that’s why I didn’t find his answer to my question, “what is the hardest thing about making cheese?” surprising. He simply looked over at me and with a big grin on his face he replied, “The hardest thing about making cheese is watching it walk out the door.”

Visit Lorena and The Texas Cheese House.

It taste like Texas-no matter how you slice it.

Home Furnishings | Gifts | Garden Furnishings 254-642-0153 | verandabloom.com M-F 10-5:30 Sat 10-4 12 E. Mesquite (190/36) Rogers, Texas

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Chic

CHEESY

So many cheeses so little time.

Cold or melted, there’s a cheese for every dish and occasion.

Create a stylish spread at your next party and impress your guests with a variety of cheeses on a rustic cheeseboard accompanied by an array of beautiful fresh fruits, whole grain crackers, rustic breads, fresh nuts, chutney or honey, and marinated black and green olives.

To help you choose a combination that best complements your menu, wine, and spirits.

We’ve highlighted 12 of the most popular cheeses, along with a brief description of their characteristics, flavors and best methods for serving and pairing.

ASIAGO

This Italian cheese has a salty, crumbly texture.

A sharp cheese with a hint of almond favors Pairs nicely with red or white wines such as Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, Rioja, and Pinot Gris.

HAVARTI

A Danish cheese that originated in the late 19th century. Similar to Swiss cheese with a sharp flavor. The older the cheese the saltier it becomes. A great table cheese or can be grilled, melted or served on sandwiches, burgers and salads. Pairs best with white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, light-bodied Pinot Noir, even a lesser-oaked Chardonnay.

MANCHEGO

Originates from Spain. This full-bodied cheese has a buttery, robust, and zesty flavor. Pair nicely with Tempranillo, Meritage or Cabernet Sauvignon.

PARMESAN

The classic Italian cheese to grate or shave over pastas, salads, pizza, or to sprinkle in baked dishes. Pairs best with Chianti, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

ROMANO

Six Tips for Pairing KEEP IT REGIONAL

An easy rule of thumb is to pair cheese and wines from the same region. For example, Italian cheeses such as Parmesan, pairs best with an Italian Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon, while a Spanish Manchego pairs nicely with an Albarino wine.

DRY & STINKY

Mild or “aromatic” (stinky) hard cheeses compliment dry (tannic) wines best.

SALTY, STRONG & SWEET

Salty, strong cheeses with sharp flavors like blue cheeses pair perfectly with dessert wines because they balance the sweetness.

ASSOCIATE ACIDS

Acidities should be paired. The acid in goat cheese gives it its tangy flavor and makes it a perfect match for Sauvignon Blanc.

Another Italian cheese perfect for grating and serving over the tops of pastas, salads, pizza or even mixing in with grated Parmesan cheese.

Pairs best with a hearty red wine.

Creamy cheeses with a smooth, buttery flavor pair best with tannic (dry) red wines.

GRUYERE

RICH & CREAMY

Sweet and nutty flavor and one of the most versatile cheeses. Ideal for melting and grilling, excellent for grilled cheeses, fondue, or in French onion soup. Pairs wonderfully with a full-bodied sweet red wine or whites such as Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Champagne and Chardonnay.

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SMOOTH & BUTTERY

For a match made in heaven, combine rich creamy cheeses like Gruyere with champagne or a sparkling wine.

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Feeling the SQUEEZE The Sandwich Generation

By WENDY SLEDD

L

Life is busy in the Pierce household.

Three teenage girls keep things bustling with their school and extra- curricular activities while mom, Anne, operates a home-based business, freelances as a seamstress for a local company, and is the glue, along with her husband, that holds her family together.

In January, the Pierce household grew. Anne’s mom, Ellie Zietz, 89, moved in with the family after doctors said she could no longer live on her own.

“She was not taking her medicine, eating properly and was very dehydrated. She fell in her backyard and could not get up. The temperatures were in the 40s, it was drizzling, and it was 10 hours before the neighbor found her. She got pneumonia,” Anne said.

Ellie, who turns 90 in April, moved back and forth between the homes of her daughter and her son for several months before moving in permanently with Anne.

“Mom was used to being on her own and then had to live with someone. It was hard for her to give up her independence,” Anne said. “She doesn’t like TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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change and regresses back to earlier times.

She wants simplicity and change is stressful for her.”

Once common back in the days when society revolved around agriculture, multigenerational families are now on the upswing because of tough economic times and a growing elderly population. A 2012 survey by PulteGroup, a national home builder, found that 32 percent of adult children expect to eventually share their house with a parent.

Behavioral Therapist Mary Greiner of Kempner said respecting and caring for elderly family members is a cultural feature.

“Multi-generational families used to be the norm when we were an agricultural society. Adult children would never consider putting their parents in a nursing home,” Greiner said. “But adjustments have to be made when a child has to serve as the parent in many ways, such as ensuring that medication is being taken, bills are being paid, and those kinds of things.”

Those adjustments have been difficult

for the entire Pierce family since Ellie moved into their home. Routines had to be changed, personal items had to be relocated, and Ellie had to adjust to living with three teenage girls.

“There is a huge generation gap since my mother is old enough to actually be my grandmother although she is my mother,” said Anne, who is in her mid-40s. “Mom

“There’s a lot of drama among the girls.

Because they are teenagers, there’s a lot of bickering, yelling, and door slamming,” Anne said. “Loud noises startle my mother. She will speak her mind and not always in the nicest way. I ask the girls to be understanding.”

Anne, who runs a home-based business, has had a difficult time adjusting, as well.

Ellie needs almost constant care, most of which is provided by Anne. She likens it to role reversal, as she is now a mother to her own mother, taking care of her in every way from nursing care to laundry.

Greiner said modifications have to be made on both sides of the multi-generational family and recommends discussing boundaries, rules and consequences with family members.

“When operating as a family is used to, a homeostasis develops. When someone from the outside moves in, it is uncomfortable for all and a new homeostasis has to be created,” she said.

Scot Hrbacek, financial advisor with Edward Jones Investments of Belton, said

from the depression “eraPeople or even their children are

really hesitant to talk openly about finances.

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”

thinks the girls are lazy. But things are done differently today than when she was growing up, totally different. Plus she has some dementia setting in.”

While Ellie’s presence helps the family look at things from a different perspective, Anne said having their grandmother in the house is almost overwhelming for the teens, ages 12, 14 and 16.

one in eight American families are now living multi-generationally.

“We actually have a name for this. It is called the “sandwich generation” where the child is caring for a parent while raising children of their own,” he said.

Because financial concerns can contribute to the stress factors of multigenerational families, Hrbacek recommends families take four steps to plan financially for the scenario.

1. SAVE “First, you have to take care of yourself so you can care for others. This is not meant to be selfish. But, you will be more financially able to care for others if you have planned already for your own needs,” Hrbacek said.

“Don’t derail your own financial planning.

It may need to be modified or adjusted based on how much you are investing or saving, but you need to stay on track.”

2. TALK ABOUT FAMILY FINANCES “People from the depression era or even their children are really hesitant to talk openly about finances. This sometimes leads to poor decisions being made based on misinformation,” Hrbacek said. “Ensure that parents share information about insurance and investment portfolios so that you know what you are working with.”

It is important to have copies of parents’ wills, powers of attorney, and especially medical powers of attorney to allow parents’ final wishes to be fulfilled.

“Even with my own parents, it was hard to get them to talk about their finances, very difficult. But now I am better prepared to

make decision for my parents rather than trying to guess,” Hrbacek said.

3. SEEK EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES While many seniors are technologically savvy in researching this information, those who are not can find great resources at their local senior centers and the Area Agency on Aging of Central Texas, which can help navigate the internet and assist in locating additional funds.

“Laws are constantly changing with Medicare, Medicaid, veterans’ benefits, and the social security benefit,” Hrbacek said. “There is not a magic pill to find this information out. You have to dig around and research it, but there is a lot of help out there.”

4. DELEGATE TASKS-GET ASSISTANCE The final steps in the planning process.

“If you are the primary caretaker, don’t

2012 Census Estimates Texas population: 26,059,203 US State Population Rank: 2nd largest Percentage of Texans Age 65 and up: 10.5% Number of Texans Age 65 and up: ~2.7 million According to the LTC Texas website: Long Term Care expenses in Texas (2011): $11.2 billion

be afraid to ask for help,” Hrbacek said.

“Elderly parents can get help with finances, medical needs, insurance—lots of help is available to them.”

Parents caring for grandparents of their own children should ensure that respite care is available. Home care agencies can provide the highest level of nursing care in the home.

“A lot of people want to care for their parents 24 hours a day. But they just cannot do it for long periods and help is available,” Hrbacek said.

Financially speaking, Anne Pierce’s family is fortunate. For more than 50 years, Ellie has lived off investments made by her late husband who planned well financially for their future.

“She pays for her own medication and pays for the family’s groceries. So it is not a burden,” Anne said. However, had Anne known early on that she’d be sharing her 4-bedroom, 2,000 square feet home with Ellie, she would have made other plans.

“I would’ve bought a house with an additional room. I want the kids to each have their own rooms, but once she moved in, two girls had to double up,” she said.

Despite the challenges, Anne said she will never place her mother in a nursing home and will relish the time they have together as she cares for her in their home.

“My mother is never a burden. She may get on my nerves sometimes, but she is never a burden,” Anne said.

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Money Matters

These local business owners are here to help you along your journey to financial security

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Lott, Vernon & Company, P.C., CPAs 109 East Ave. B, Killeen 254.526.0571 | 254.526.0571

In 2014, Lott, Vernon & Company, P.C., Certified Public Accountants (LVC), celebrates its 60th Anniversary serving the Central Texas community.

With over 30 professionals and offices located in Killeen, Temple and Copperas Cove, the staff takes pride in offering clients outstanding professional accounting services. From its inception in 1954, the philosophy of LVC has revolved around the basic concept of exceptional quality and comprehensive accounting and financial services to their clients.

In the Killeen office Debbie Hershberger, CPA, Principal, Janet (Penny) Stephenson, CPA,CFE, FCPA, Manager and Vicky Johnson, CPA bring their over 50 years of accounting experience to their clients. LVC has assembled a complete team that is capable of offering diverse services Vicky Johnson, CPA; Debbie Hershberger, CPA Principal; Janet (Penny) Stephenson, CPA, CFE, FCPA Manager clients expect to receive from a Certified Public Accounting firm and more. The LVC staff includes professionals with over 400 years of accounting experience who provide clients with exceptional professional services including tax preparation, audit, estate planning, fraud and forensic examinations, payroll and accounts payable processing and bookkeeping. QuickBooks Pro Advisors are also available.

Lott, Vernon & Company, P.C. takes pride in providing outstanding personalized accounting services to our Killeen, Temple, Copperas Cove and Central Texas neighbors for the past 60 years. The firm looks forward to the next 60 years continuing to serve our community.

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Edward Jones

Tommy Howell, CFP®, AAMS®, Financial Advisor 2010 Southwest HK Dodgen Loop Exchange Plaza Suite 208, Temple, 254-771-1288 | www.edwardjones.com As your Edward Jones branch team, we believe it’s important to invest our time to understand what you’re working toward before you invest your money. Working closely with you and your CPA, attorney and other professionals, we can help determine the most appropriate financial strategy for you and your family. We can also help ensure you have a comprehensive retirement savings strategy to help give you more options when you retire, regardless of what you decide to do.

I joined Edward Jones as a financial advisor in 1999, opening the firm’s fourth branch office in Temple.

I attended Wayland Baptist University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

I have also received the CFP® and AAMS® certifications. My wife, Tricia, and I have three children and one grandchild.

Relationships are key, and in our view, meeting face to face builds strong relationships. We meet when it’s convenient for our clients because we recognize the challenging needs of their business and their lives.

Tommy Howell, Financial Advisor

Member SIPC

Lone Star Ag Credit

2552 Blue Meadow Drive, Temple | 254-778-8111 | lonestaragcredit.com Lone Star Ag Credit is a rural financing cooperative with loan specialists who understand the needs of farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses and rural homeowners because they live and work in the areas they serve. Lone Star Ag Credit has built and maintained long-standing traditions of strength, stability and service since they were established in 1917.

In January of this year, Lone Star and Texas Land Bank combined into a larger, stronger, more profitable and more efficient association. This new, larger association will continue to provide the same excellent local service across a 48 county area making them even more competitive in the marketplace. They are also part of the Farm Credit System, the largest, single-source of rural financing in America.

For more information call the Temple office at 254-778-8111 or visit LoneStarAgCredit.com Nathan VanNoord, Credit Office President (left) and Jason Collier, Loan Officer

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the h it w s in g e B Money Smarts

ABCs Elementary life lessons for children

By VALERIE L. VALDEZ

gs, in v a s r o f s t n A-llotme

B-udgets,

. it d e r c d n a C-ash

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It is never too early to begin teaching children about the value of money, smart ways to save, budgets and good spending habits. Raising kids to be financially responsible and smart with their money is one lesson that pays off huge in adulthood.

Kids are like sponges that quickly soak up what they see and hear. Raising moneysmart kids should start when the children are young -- even a 3-year-old can grasp putting coins in a piggy bank. But unlike a talk about sex or drugs, kids must be taught money skills as they grow older and experience them firsthand. Parents must reinforce those skills by using them in their own lives. Lessons about saving money don’t have to be difficult or boring for the child or parent, if some thought and common sense are applied.

Talk About Money The first thing parents should do is talk with their children about money, “Most parents make a big mistake by not discussing money and its value with children,” said Patton Kaufman, president of First Texas Bank Texas in Killeen.

“Understanding money is the most important life lesson for a child.”

Kaufman stressed discipline and goal-setting as important skills parents can give their children. Yet, parents shouldn’t tell their kids about financial troubles.

Talking about money goals positively, such as discussions about saving for a family vacation or buying a new car, is a better way to get their interest.

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What is Money?

Kids relate easier to the concept of money when they can hold and feel it. So let children play with coins and explain to them the value of a penny, nickel, dime and quarter. Do the same with paper money, and then give them quizzes to identify the currency. Show them common items, such as a can of soup or candy bar, explaining the costs of each. This is a simple way to introduce the value of dollars and cents in a tangible way to a child.

Earn as They Learn

Their First Savings Account Children’s first savings accounts should be in the home, so they can see and use them often. When kids receive money from completing tasks or for birthday presents, put the money into three small containers or piggy banks labeled “saving,”“spending” and “sharing.” As the savings increase, get larger containers so the children can see the “growth” of their money.

Create a simple budget by tracking the money on a chart.

Use the “10-10-10-70” system developed by Lori Mackey, founder of Prosperity4Kids. Every time a child gets money, have him save 10 percent, invest 10 percent, give 10 percent and live off 70 percent.

Start a Savings Account Taking the savings out of the home and putting it into a bank account is the next step in a child’s financial future. Like many banking institutions, First National Bank Texas has a “Kids Count” for customers younger than 21. A Child Savings Account typically has a low- or no-minimum balance requirement. This type of savings account usually offers a low interest rate, which is a great way to teach children about compound interest and how their money can earn more money.

Play Free Online Games Save!, the downloadable game from Mass Mutual Financial Group, teaches kids how to separate “iWants” from “iNeeds.” The game is an instructional tool to teach children the value of saving money.

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Raise an Entrepreneur Teaching children how to build their own businesses will reinforce good savings habits. Lemonade Day is a free community program in the Killeen/Fort Hood area sponsored by First National Bank of Texas. It teaches youths how to start, own and operate their own business – a lemonade stand.

“Lemonade Day educates youths on the value of entrepreneurship through basic lessons on goal-setting, money management to include budgeting and savings through an account at a bank,” said Amanda Stephens, customer experience project manager at First National Bank Texas and First Convenience Bank.

“Don’t overlook taking kids to thrift stores and garage sales for used products.”

Children love to help mommy and daddy. It gives them a sense of accomplishment, so use their initiative to teach them about working for an allowance. Set a value based on each year of the child’s life, from 50 cents up to $1 per year per week. Children will learn the value of money faster when they work for it, and assigning tasks such as taking trash out, picking up toys or making their beds is a great way to teach them that value. As the children grow older, the allowance increases as task get more difficult, such as raking the yard and washing the car.

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collecting all the virtual money they can while avoiding impulse buys – “iWants” – before time runs out. Free games that teach children about finances and savings, like “financial football,” are also available at practicalmoneyskills.com.

Take Savings Adventures Often the only difference between the name brands and the generics is cost, because the quality of generics is just as good. Jessica Jackel, a Fort Hood military wife and mother of two young boys teaches them the value of generic items when they shop.

“I explain they can get the same quality from a generic brand, and they’re starting to understand that cheaper doesn’t mean a lesser product,” Jackel said. Another way to help kids understand the value of money is by clipping coupons. And don’t overlook taking kids to thrift stores and garage sales for used products. Used toys are like new toys to a child.

Spend Only What You Have Credit cards can be assets and security, but only in case of an emergency. That is the approach Katherine Robbins, owner of Cookie Addiction in Harker Heights, has taught her three daughters. “I tell them not to use credit cards for daily expenses, like going to lunch or the movies,” Russell said. “One of my girls learned the hard way when she had an emergency with her car, but her card was maxed because she had used it for everyday things so she couldn’t pay for the repairs.

That is when all the lectures became reality and hit home.”

If a child isn’t ready for a credit card, get them a prepaid smart card instead. A prepaid credit card carries a specific amount, like $100, and is a good way to introduce them to “plastic money.” Parents set the prepaid amount and can deposit money from their bank account to the child’s reloadable card. Parents and children can track spending and balances online.

College Costs One of the biggest expenses for a young person and family is a college education. Parents should start the conversation by freshman year in high school. Discussing the topic early and being honest about what the family can afford will help a young adult be realistic when applying to colleges. There are many ways to finance college. The FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is the process that decides the financial aid a student qualifies for – including workstudy, scholarships, grants and loans. It can be difficult to predict how much a family will receive in aid, but the FAFSA form will cover virtually every institution. Financial aid can be estimated using the FAFSA4caster tool at fafsa.ed.gov and monthly loan payments can be

calculated at studentaid.ed.gov.

As kids grow older, they will learn about money with or without their parents’ help. By giving children a sound financial education early, parents can help them learn to be responsible with their money and set them on paths to a more secure future.

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FINANCE EDUCATION RESOURCES Secret Millionaires Club

The Secret Millionaires Club is an animated series that features Warren Buffett as a mentor to a group of entrepreneurial kids whose adventures lead them to encounter financial and business problems to solve.

The program teaches good basic financial decision-making and basic lessons in starting a business.

The animated series has 26 online short webisodes and TV specials featured on the HUB cable network. smckids.com

Money As You Grow

Twenty things kids need to know to live financially smart lives. Selected by the American Library Association as one of its great websites for kids. moneyasyougrow.org

Practical Money Skills for Life.

Financial literacy for everyone. Includes games for all ages and educators’ classroom curriculum for grades 9-12. practicalmoneyskills.com

SpendSmart, the prepaid MasterCard for Teens.

The reloadable SpendSmart Card is prepaid, so there is never any risk of teens spending more than what is on the card. There is no credit risk to either the teen or parent. spendsmartcard.com

Lemonade Day

Lemonade Day is a free, fun, experiential learning program that teaches youth how to start, own and operate their own business – a lemonade stand. It began in Houston in 2007. Since then it has grown from 2,700 kids to 120,000 kids in 31 cities across America and Canada in 2011 – including ours. The foremost objective of Lemonade Day is to empower youth to take ownership of their lives and become productive members of society – the business leaders, social advocates, volunteers, and forward thinking citizens of tomorrow.

Each child who registers receives a backpack with an Entrepreneur Workbook that teaches them the 14 lessons of Lemonade Day like creating budgets, setting profit-making goals, serving customers, repaying investors and giving back to the community. Along the way, they acquire skills in goal-setting, problem-solving, and gain self-esteem critical for future success. They keep all the money they make and are encouraged to spend some, save some and share some.Forthood.lemonadeday.org

BOOKS A Teen Guide to Safe-Haven Savings by TAMMY GAGNE Piggy Banks to Paychecks: Helping Kids Understand the Value of a Dollar by ANGIE MOHR Smart Money Smart Kids: Raising the Next Generation to Win with Money

by DAVE RAMSEY and RACHEL CRUZE.

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TEXhealth

Battling the Blemish The best treatments for acne

by RAJESH REDDY, M.D., Board Certified Family Medicine, Metroplex Clinic Physicians

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ith modern photo-editing software, everyone can have flawless skin on paper. But in real life, problems such as acne cannot be fixed with airbrushing.

Acne is a condition that most people have experienced at some point in their life.

Whether you have experienced acne as a teenager or as an adult, it can be incredibly embarrassing and frustrating.

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TEXhealth CAUSES OF ADULT AND TEENAGE ACNE Acne is often thought of as an adolescent problem; however, pimples and blemishes also crop up in adulthood. Some of the leading contributors to acne include:

Diet

Hormones

Stress

Primarily affecting teenagers, but also adults with some hormonal disorders. Increased hormone levels result in an increased production of sebum, which plays a central role in acne.

There is some evidence that increased stress levels result in increased acne.

External factors Oil-based cosmetics may increase acne due to clogging of pores. Non-oil cosmetic products are water-based and less likely to promote acne. Some individuals with acne use acne-targeted skin care cleansers that help remove sebum, but have no effect on sebum production. Aggressive scrubbing can actually irritate skin and result in more acne.

The role of diet is controversial with only a few studies finding a weak association between diet and acne.

Though the cause of acne is often the same at any age, adults may experience it a bit differently. Adult women tend to get a different distribution and kind of acne.

Blemishes are often found on the bottom portion of the face including the chin, jawline and around the mouth. These blemishes tend to be deeper and more painful than the normal blackheads and whiteheads experienced by teenagers.

Types of Acne Whiteheads

Blackheads

Papules, pustules, or nodules

White-appearing dots that occur when sebum (an oily substance produced by the skin to help keep skin moist) becomes trapped in a pore under a thin layer of skin.

Black-appearing dots resulting from densely packed oxidized oils (lending to the dark color), dead skin cells, and bacteria, but not typically dirt in a hair follicle..

Red, swollen, and inflamed lesions resulting from whiteheads or blackheads that become infected; these lesions are often hard and painful.

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TEXhealth TREATMENT OPTIONS There is not a one-treatment-fits-all for acne.

Treatments range from skin-care products found at local drug stores to topical creams and antibiotics commonly prescribed to treat severe acne. Many acne treatments are applied to the skin to help kill the bacteria, while others work on reducing oil. Common topical acne treatments include salicylic acid, sulfur-containing topical creams, benzoyl peroxide and retinoids.

Other types of medicine might be necessary if you have red and swollen types of acne such as cysts and nodules. These treatments include topical antibiotics, antibiotic pills, and birth control pills.

However, if these do not work for your acne or if you experience side effects, there are additional medical treatment options to treat both acne and the scars they leave behind

Again, keep in mind that there is often more than one option for the same skin concern. Choosing which option is best for you requires sitting down with a skin care professional and discussing your skin type and goals.

Laser Technology

Laser Peel

Advances in laser technology has created several effective treatment options for treating a variety of skin conditions, including acne scarring. Laser treatments can effectively remove layers of damaged tissues, reduce discoloration, and even encourage the growth of new skin cells. Laser treatments should only be performed by skin-care professionals who have been trained and certified in the treatment procedure.

A laser peel is a quick and effective treatment that uses a special laser to address conditions on the top layer of your skin, such as acne scarring. The treatment removes a thin layer of damaged skin to improve texture and provides superior results because it can be administered with great precision of depth.

The laser beam is scanned over a treatment area to precisely ablate (vaporize) a very thin layer of skin, removing old, damaged tissue.

Removing the top layer eliminates some of the damaged cells. As the skin heals, fresh cells grow and resurface the treated area. The result is healthier-looking skin.

Phototherapy Phototherapy is an innovative technology that allows the physician to precisely treat conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, age and sun spots, and many other skin conditions. The redness and swelling associated with acne is caused by lightsensitive bacteria. The light energy delivered during phototherapy gently heats the upper layers of the skin, exerting antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Phototherapy can also result in reduced sebum production resulting in a less-favorable environment for acne to develop.

Daily Regimen It is important to develop a daily cleansing routine for washing skin, especially skin prone to acne. With so many products and cleansing methods to choose from, it can be difficult to find a combination that works for you. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends: Gently wash your face and/or acne prone areas with a non-abrasive, mild cleanser that does not contain alcohol. Wash your face twice a day – once in the morning and once at night.

Use lukewarm water when washing your face and use your fingertips to apply cleanser. Never scrub your face or use hot water-- these can be irritating to your skin.

Use noncomedogenic cosmetics, cleansers and moisturizers.

Noncomedogenic products use ingredients that won’t clog pores.

Drink plenty of water. The body needs to get rid of waste materials, so hydrate your body from the inside out.

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NEVER squeeze or pick at pimples.

Even though it is tempting, this can potentially cause a deeper infection or even scarring.

Do not rely on avoiding certain foods to relieve acne.

Fractionated Laser With “fractionated” laser resurfacing, only a portion of the skin is treated in a session.

The treatment uses a laser beam that ablates thousands of pinpoint channels in your skin.

Because only a fraction of your skin is directly treated with the laser, the surrounding untreated tissue promotes rapid healing. The skin’s wound healing response creates new collagen, which adds firmness and resilience

TEXhealth to the skin. In many cases, this is the fastest, most-effective way to treat acne scars.

Start Treating Acne Quickly It’s important to start treating acne quickly.

Early treatment can lessen the physical effects (scarring) and the emotional effects of acne such as depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. Although acne cannot be cured, it can be controlled. Regardless of the types

of treatment you choose, remember to keep your expectations realistic as you determine the best treatment options for your type of acne. As with any medical procedure, there are risks and benefits that should be thoroughly discussed with your skin-care professional prior to any treatment. Specific goals should be discussed and all questions should be answered to your satisfaction.

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TEXfit

Move It

By SUSAN CORNETTE, CPT,

Exercise is the best-kept secret for anti-aging benefits

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e are bombarded with advertising for anti-aging creams and anti-aging products of all kinds. Many of us spend a lot of money fighting the aging battle with fierce determination. We are constantly seeking the latest and greatest product that promises to at least slow down the inevitable clock of life.

But the secret lies not in products you buy, but within your own body and soul. Exercise is the BEST anti-aging remedy out there.

Simply put, it’s time to MOVE it!

Sitting is a risk factor for all causes of mortality. People who don’t move are high risk for poor health. Regular exercise reduces the likelihood and severity of a number of 56

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chronic illnesses. What’s more? Working out regularly can cause someone to look and feel 35 at 60 or beyond. Not only does a healthy exercise regimen keep one looking fit and toned, but exercise also carries away free radicals and protects one’s skin from wrinkles. In addition, exercise bolsters mental health by enhancing your mood.

Given all the benefits, there is no reason not to start exercising.

HOW TO GET STARTED If you are over 50 or have risk factors for heart disease, it is important that you talk to your doctor before beginning any new exercise program. Once he or she has given you

TEXfit the all clear, it is important to start slowly.

Walking, gardening or joining a group fitness class for up to 50 minutes per week may be a good place to start if you have been sedentary for a while. You will find your fitness level will improve quickly, and you may want to slowly add strength training and flexibility to your regimen. A complete fitness program includes the following:

AEROBIC EXERCISE Walking, cycling, step aerobics and Zumba are good forms of aerobic exercise. They work the large muscles in your body, which benefits your cardiovascular system -- and your weight.

Work up to getting 20 or more minutes per session, three or four days a week. Exercise at a pace that lets you carry on a conversation -- what’s known as the “talk test.”

STRENGTH TRAINING Studies have shown that lifting relatively light weights for many repetitions is a safe and effective way to build lean muscle and reverse the effects of aging on muscle loss and bone density. There is no need to try to lift heavy weights as we get older, in fact, in many cases our own body weight provides all the resistance we need.

FLEXIBILITY Stretching exercises help maintain flexibility and range of motion in joints. They also reduce the risk of injury and muscle soreness.

Yoga and Barre or Pilates are good forms of stretching exercise that will build core body strength and increase stability while improving flexibility.

DON’T LET CHRONIC PAIN OR INJURIES STAND IN YOUR WAY Many people feel they cannot or should not exercise because of an underlying injury or chronic pain. They feel that taking it easy might be a better solution. In a recent article in Stanford Medicine, one surgeon wrote, “there is practically nothing that exercise isn’t good for.” Aside from the proven cardiovascular benefits of exercise, exercising regularly can help people who suffer from chronic pain actually decrease the pain as they unwind, de-stress, lose weight, increase range of motion or the normal amount your joints can be moved in certain directions, and build muscle and bone strength. For those who suffer from tension headaches, exercise reduces muscle tension and boosts endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers.

Perhaps one of the most immediate benefits of exercise is the psychological boost you get with the decrease in anxiety and tension, mood enhancement and well-being, and a general state of relaxation. Again, your doctor should clear you for exercise following any injury, but in most cases he or she is likely to prescribe exercise as the best medicine for maximizing the healing process.

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TEXfit

NO BONES ABOUT IT Like muscle, bone is living tissue that responds to exercise by becoming stronger.

Young women and men who exercise regularly generally achieve greater peak bone mass (maximum bone density and strength) than those who do not. For most people, bone mass peaks during the third decade of life. As we age, we begin to lose bone. Women and men older than age 20 can help prevent bone loss with regular exercise. Exercise maintains muscle strength, coordination and balance, which in turn helps to reduce the risks of falls and related fractures. This is especially important for older adults and those who have been diagnosed with osteoporosis. Any exercise that features weights or leverages your own body’s weight for resistance such as stretch bands, light weights, walking, jogging, dancing – or anything that moves against gravity--is going to be best for your bones.

START TODAY Titan Total Training in Temple makes getting started easy and offers personal training sessions for those who need one-on-one help with creating a personalized program, motivation or aid with a specific form of rehabilitation. Others will find the large variety of classes led by certified instructors is all they need to get into a healthy routine. All of the T3 instructors are skilled at training beginners to advanced-level participants and can help you modify your workouts to meet your physical needs and prevent injuries.

From yoga to boot camp, indoor cycling and Body Pump, group classes challenge you to improve your overall fitness in an enjoyable and energizing environment. Visit www. titantotaltraining.com to view a complete class schedule. Mention you read about Titan Training in Tex Appeal and enjoy a FREE one-week trial membership.

If you’re ready to start feeling and looking better, then it’s time to get up and start MOVING. Don’t let negative thoughts about your current physical condition, strength or ability prevent you from trying.

Remember to start slow. Find a local group 58

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or trainer for motivation and support.

Choose an activity you enjoy and make an honest effort to MOVE daily. The more you move--the better you will feel and the better you feel-- the more you can move. The power to change is all within you, and you are only one step away from making the best move of your life.

TEXfit

Serving Temple-Belton-Salado

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TEXadventures

E TYLER-EAST TEXAS

History Blooms

The Rose Capital of the World

by AZEITA TAYLOR

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TEXadventures

estled in the piney woods of East Texas, Tyler N is known for its exquisite municipal rose garden, azalea trails, a nationally recognized zoo and award-winning symphony. Often referred to as the Rose City, Tyler is located near several lakes, woodlands and other attractions about 90 miles east of Dallas.

HISTORY Settled in 1846 as the Smith County seat and one of many counties created by the first Texas Legislature in April of that year, Tyler was named after the nation’s 10th president, John Tyler, who helped admit Texas to the United States. A small courthouse was built in the five-street town and the first county seats and sheriff were elected. In 1850, the city government was incorporated and a mayor and four aldermen were named.

By 1860, the first brick and mortar businesses were built, and the city’s population had grown to 1,024.

Tyler was home to the largest Confederate ordnance plant in Texas and a prison camp during the Civil War. From 1877 to 1890, 21 miles of Tyler Tap Railroad were completed, a public school system was established, Texas College was founded for African-Americans, and the Tyler Electric Light and Power Co. supplied city residents with electricity.

During the first half of the 1900s, industry helped the city’s growth. Tyler’s Texas Rose Festival was established in 1933 and has taken place in October every year since, with exception of the World War II years. The city established its chamber of commerce and the East Texas oilfields were discovered, which furthered the growth of the city and photos courtesy Tyler Visitors Bureau

increased its population to 28,279 by 1940.

Today, with a population of more than 99,000, Tyler is considered the manufacturing, health care, educational and retail center of East Texas.

AZALEA TRAILS AND ROSE FESTIVAL Each spring, tourists and residents alike enjoy mile after mile of azaleas, dogwood trees and spring flowers during the annual Azalea and Spring Flower Trail. The breathtaking

beauty of the eight-mile trail has been praised by visitors as a floral wonderland and a photographer’s paradise. During the festival, the Tyler Convention and Visitors Bureau sponsors an amateur photography contest, awarding the winners with cash prizes and a featured spot in an upcoming azalea trail brochure. This year the city of Tyler will host its 55th annual event March 21 – April 6.

In the fall, Tyler celebrates the rose with its

The Azalea trails feature miles of blooming azaleas, dogwoods, and spring flowers.

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TEXadventures annual Texas Rose Festival. Rich in heritage and tradition, the festival offers enchanting ceremonial events including the Queen’s Coronation, the Rose Show, the Queen’s Tea and the Rose Parade. All of the events take place amid a backdrop of brilliant roses as vibrant and colorful as the community they represent. Rose enthusiasts can also visit the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden and the LeGrand Rose Garden year round.

Julian’s Asian Diner is known for its chicken lettuce wraps and teriyaki bowls and martinis.

HOTELS/RESTAURANTS/SHOPPING Looking for a sweet place to sleep, dine and shop? Tyler is home to more than 250 restaurants, 2,200 hotel rooms and countless shops. A unique variety of dining options are available for every taste, including Rick’s on the Square. The venue offers live outdoor music, an impressive wine list and food menu. The Bergfeld Center located in the heart of Tyler’s Azalea District was the first shopping center in Tyler and East Texas, and continues to include a large variety of stores catering to the upscale customer. Major shopping can be found along the South Broadway Corridor and in the first phase of the new Village at Cumberland Park, which opens this summer.

THE ARTS

The Downtown Tyler Art Walk is a great place to discover new art for home.

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Also known for its involvement in the arts, Tyler has gone to great lengths to immerse residents and visitors in performing arts, cultural activities and music. Downtown Tyler’s Liberty Hall Theatre dates back to the 1930s. In 2011, Liberty Hall reopened as part of the city’s revitalization effort and now hosts live performances, concerts and classic films in an art deco

setting. Those wishing to hear the sounds of instrumental magic should also focus their attention on the Tyler Community Concert Association and the East Texas Symphony Orchestra. Performing arts connoisseurs should visit the Cowen Center, the Tyler Civic Theatre Center and East Texas Arts.

OUTDOOR LIVING The city of Tyler is not slack where outdoor activities are concerned. The city is vested with 26 parks, 22 area sporting lakes, 66 ten-

TEXadventures

Ballet Tyler providesclassroom instruction, special workshops, and reasonably-priced performances

nis courts, 26 baseball fields, 15 soccer fields and nine golf courses. Lake Tyler offers five boat ramps, several public parks on its shoreline, fishing and primitive campgrounds.

The city of Tyler also offers the East Texas Fresh Farmer’s Market in October for those who enjoy shopping outdoors. With fresh produce, flowers and local venders, the shopping experience brings visitors closer to the food and the farmers.

ATTRACTIONS/MUSEUMS Tyler is home to a plethora of attractions for families, from venturing into the animal kingdom to trekking back through history.

The 85-acre Caldwell Zoo is a live exhibit facility that offers a firsthand view of more than 2,000 animals in natural habitats. History enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Camp Ford Historical Park, which was once a Con-

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TEXadventures The Discovery Science Place is full of fun activities for the whole family.

federate POW camp. They may also want to visit the American Freedom Museum, the Historical Aviation Memorial Museum and the Cotton Belt Depot. Don’t want to ramble through the city without an escort? Jericho Tours of Tyler gives tours to the best and most unusual Tyler has to offer in museums, historic homes and sites, shopping, dining and, of course, haunted places.

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HOUSING MARKET/SCHOOL Although Tyler has become a valued vacation destination, many families decide to make the city their permanent residence because of its close proximity to major cities, educational opportunities and housing rates.

Tyler is an affordable, family-friendly city where the median household income is approximately $42,729 and the median home value is $153,000. Military veterans are welcomed, with nearly 6,500 calling Tyler home.

The city is also home to several educational facilities, including Tyler Junior College, Texas College, Le Tourneau University and the University of Texas at Tyler.

Azalea & Spring Flower Trail March 21-April 6 www.VisitTyler.com

ADVERTISERS INDEX American Hearing..............................................51

Marjorie Kohring................................................38

Bell County Health Department..........................55

MCP MedSpa.....................................................35

Bell County Museum..........................................64

Metroplex Hospital...............................................3

Bob Mills Furniture...............................................2

Mud Pies Pottery................................................10

Cameron Park Zoo...............................................5

Painting with a Twist............................................7

Centex Scrap & Metal........................................51

Peloton Ridge Country Club.................................9

Central Texas Expo.............................................50

Precious Memories.............................................10

Century 21 - Gail Roe & Associates....................42

Priscilla Z Photography.......................................67

Clem Mikeska’s..................................................53

Re/Max Temple Belton........................................29

Dossman Funeral Home.....................................63

Rockin R Retreat Center.....................................13

EcoBlu Salon......................................................50

Scott’s Lawn Care..............................................28

El Centro Veterinary...........................................57

Seoul Garden.....................................................59

Ellis Air Systems.................................................49

Shar’s Boutique..................................................15

Elmcroft of Cottonwood....................................25

Shoppes on Main...............................................13

English Maids.....................................................59

So Natural Organic Market.................................57

Extraco Bank.........................................Back Cover

Solar Centex......................................................38

Falls Furniture....................................................55

Taste of Central Texas.........................................27

Fat Charlie’s.......................................................64

Taste of Home Cooking School..........................42

Groutworks.......................................................51

Texas Bariatric....................................................38

Hallmark Service Co...........................................42

Texas BBQ..........................................................25

Killeen Heating & Air..........................................51

Topstone............................................................35

Killeen Sew & Quilt............................................29

UMHB Human Performance Lab.........................14

Kim Hay.............................................................14

Union State Bank.................................................5

Kiska House.......................................................15

Veranda Blooms.................................................35

Lastovica Jewelers................................................7

Visiting Angels...................................................63

Lochridge Priest.................................................29

Westside Baptist Church....................................29

Lucky Bebe..........................................................7

Z Aesthetics.........................................................7 The Advertisers’ Index is published for reader convenience. Every effort is made to list information correctly. The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.

Connect with over 75,000 reader.

For more information contact Lucie Fralicks at lfralicks@texappealmag.com or 254.774.5264

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BarbWIRED BY KACTUS KATE Slighty Sharp & Twisted These quizzes pop-up frequently on Facebook and lure you in to taking a short questionnaire to find out which food, cocktail, or drink best matches your personality. I don’t care how “full your glass may be,” the fact is, few can resist such an enlightening opportunity to see which “cocktail” sums them up best.

I found a food quiz at www.buzzfeed.com/ joannaborns/quiz–what-food-matches–yourpersonality and answered the nine questions and hit submit. Within seconds, it calculated my answers and gave me my food match. Thinking I must have answered something wrong, I went back and retook the quiz. Yet, again, same results:

Hot Buttered Roll.

You’re a hot, buttered roll. Emphasis on the HOT. Everybody wants you but not everybody can have you. Be careful with your hotness and don’t use it for evil.

Food for thought

IF A CAT HAS KITTENS INSIDE AN OVEN, THAT DON’T MAKE ‘em biscuits. However, based on their personality, they may be a hot buttered roll, burrito, or even a real wiener.

Have you ever met somebody really interesting and well-rounded? You know the type–outdoorsy, but professional, well-read, world traveler, good cook, artsy and creative, musically inclined, and a handyman who can fix just about anything. The kind that jet off on exciting adventures every year such as 21-day backpacking trips into the wild Alaskan backcountry or doing missionary work in third-world countries. You know… a BURRITO. A real renaissance man or woman, who is a little bit of everything all thrown into a homemade flour tortilla and rolled up nice and neat. Of course, there are all kinds, some who are more content traveling the world via the National Geographic Channel–couch POTATO; those who are laidback, easy going and get along with everybody in a variety of settings—SANDWICH; and the oldsouls who are slightly aged and mellow for the most part, till you cross them, then they can get a little stinky and sharp–CHEESE.

I admit, it may seem a little unconventional to match someone’s personality to a food, but as they say, “the proof is in the pudding.” It doesn’t happen often, but on occasions it can be as obvious as a 5-foot-tall neon sign blinking off and on over their head: “WEINER. WEINER. WEINER.” And don’t pretend you don’t know what I am talking about. Everybody has met a wiener at some point in life. Just saying.

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Figuring out someone’s “food” is easy as picking out dinner at Luby’s Cafeteria. However, what’s not as easy s figuring out your own food match. I know they say “you are what you eat,” but don’t assume your favorite food is the same as your personality match, that my friend is a-whole‘nother enchilada.

Thinking about my own personality, I came to the conclusion I must be sweet and sour chicken. Now I know what you’re thinking, “but that’s Chinese?” Well, technically yes, but it is a Chinese dish created for the American palate.

The ingredients are simple. Chicken-all-white meat, nothing fancy. Breaded and deep-fried, little Southern touch. Smothered in a thick, bright sauce that is a nice blend of sweet and tangy–like my ying and yang. Lastly, it’s served alongside a scoop of steamed rice–again, another ordinary pantry staple. Obviously, we’re not talking about an overly complex dish with multiple layers of intense, exotic flavors or any expensive, rare ingredients. Heck, it doesn’t even require any advanced training or highly-specialized techniques to prepare and it’s generally recognized and liked by the masses. Yep, I’d say sweet and sour chicken is an accurate match of how I wok n’ roll.

Convinced I had myself all figured out, I decided to test my theory by taking one of those online quizzes that matches personalities to foods.

Maybe hot mess? Now that I can see, but a hot buttered roll, really? Quite inconceivable if you ask me. Anyone who even implies a hot buttered roll may be capable of being evil is clearly a couple quarts short of a gallon.

Skeptical of the food quiz and its credence, I decided to take the alcoholic drink/personality match quiz at www.gotoquiz.com/what_type_ of_alcoholic_drink_are_you. Thirteen questions later, I received my results: What Type of Alcoholic Drink Are You? Your Result: Straight Shot 89% You are the wild child! Everyone is constantly wondering what you will do next. You like to be outrageous and daring. You love to hear people say you’re crazy. Have fun!

Whiskey/Rum & Coke

83%

Fruity Mixed Drink

52%

Beer

33%

A straight shot is unpretentious, like my sweet and sour chicken theory; making my drink match an easy pour to believe. However, what I find a little hard to swallow is its description. Nobody drinks straight shots and “wonders what it will do,” they know exactly what to expect. As do those who know me best will attest, no crazy surprises here either. You know exactly what to expect with me because I am an open book, easy to read, what you see is what you get- kind of gal.

Who knows what kind of junk science is used to determine personality matches to food and drinks. All I know for certain is this much, you’ll know a wiener when you meet one and you won’t need any test to confirm it. Just mark my words, when you do… you’re going to mutter, “Why butter my biscuit [roll], pour me a shot and make it a double.”

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