Texappeal April 2015 by Temple Daily Telegram

Features

a higher flower

Tips for raised-bed gardens

Congratulations on your decision to start a raised vegetable garden! The weather has been enticing you to get your hands dirty, and you’re ready to get started, so what’s next? Ask Curtis Hunter for advice. A Killeen resident and a selftaught raised-garden expert, Hunter built and maintains an impressive garden in his backyard. To say that Hunter was born with a green thumb is an understatement. He also was born with a contractor’s thumb, and both give him the diverse skills to tackle most garden and building projects. By VALERIE L. VALDEZ

From Tuscan to Mid-Century Modern Builders offer latest trends in home design, style, efficiency

drought-free design

Conserve water with xeriscaping

While drought conditions continue in Central Texas, finding affordable ways to beautify your lawn and garden is challenging. Xeriscaping, a form of landscaping that reduces or eliminates the need for extra water, just might be the solution to keeping the greenery without going broke paying exorbitant water bills. By GAIL DILLON

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

When Tim Farek, vice president of Cameo Homes in Killeen, turned on his television in the 1960s, he not only found amusement in the antics of a family living in the future, he also discovered a fondness for mid-century housing design exemplified in cartoons such as The Jetsons. “I always liked that design, and now we are seeing that style come back around in new home construction,” Farek said. Although the 50-year-old homebuilder’s generation grew up in homes built in this style, Farek said it is actually the Gen-Xers who are asking for a more contemporary, mid-century style when building their new homes. By JESSA McCLURE

high-end looks For lESS

Tips for decorating on a budget

Beautiful home decor comes in as many varieties as there are people. What separates good design from poorly executed design has everything to do with attention to detail, thrift and an artist’s eye. No one understands this better than Cora Martinek, owner and designer at Wedgwood Interiors, who has been in the interior design business since she was a child. By JESSICA PEARCE

Departments

TexTalk Neighbors Master Gardener Karen Colwick

TexTalk FLAVOURs C & H Hawaiian Grill

TexTalk BEAUTY Cora Martinek opens her bag

TexTalk SPOTLIGHT Temple Area Builders Association

TexTalk SCENE

Battle of the Bands, Wildflower Belles, Casino Night, Vienna Boys Choir

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WELL-CONNECTED

Contributors

PROFILES Area home builders and real estate companies

ON the COVER

Interior designer and decorator Cora Martinek. 53 Photograph by KARIN MARKERT

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

ADVERTISER’S INDEX

TexTherapy

TexTalk CALENDAR

TexTalk Well-Fed head “Easy Gardens for North Central Texas”

TexPets Check out these cat condos for feline friends

TexFIT Digging in the dirt promotes mind and body health

TexADVENTURES Texas Botanical Gardens in Goldthwaite

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

From the Editor

Tex Appeal Life & Style in Central Texas

Dear Readers, Spring is in the air, and with it comes the urge to create a beautiful nest. Whether you are designing a new home, decorating or tending your garden, our April issue provides ample sources of inspiration both indoors and out. This month, interior designer and decorator Cora Martinek of Wedgwood Interiors highlights home décor trends and provides a multitude of decorating ideas that work for any budget (page 53). Tim Farek of Cameo Homes, Chris Hodges of Eagle Ridge Custom Homes and Tanya Mikeska-Reed of Architectural Edge discuss innovative home design in Central Texas to stir your creativity (page 32). If you are at a loss on landscaping a new home, Jessica Robertson of Backbone Valley Nursery and Ben Pamplin of Heart of Texas Landscaping and Irrigation explain how xeriscaping can be combined with hardy Central Texas plants to create a yard with year-round curb appeal (page 48). Home design is not just for people, though. Kathy and Richard Kwieran of “Kathy’s Kitties” have developed the purr-fect solution for housing feral and domestic cats, creating unique pet homes that are as cute as they are functional (page 56). When the creative bug takes you outdoors, there is no better exercise for physical and mental wellbeing than working in a garden, as master gardener and columnist Darla Menking relates (page 59). Master gardener Karen Colwick also provides ideas for the best flowers, fruits and vegetables to plant now to ensure beautiful summer blooms and a plentiful fall harvest (page 14). If you are new to gardening, gardener Curtis Hunter, retired Army combat engineer, offers practical tips and advice to make even your first gardening attempts successful by planting vegetables in raised-garden beds (page 37). Some prefer to experience nature’s beauty without the toil, though. For these, the new Texas Botanical Gardens in Goldthwaite offers the opportunity to learn about Native American culture or explore Texas flora and fauna (page 60). When you have worked up an appetite from your outdoor adventures, check out C & H Hawaiian Grill in Copperas Cove and Killeen (page 16). Offering generous servings of marinated meats and traditional Hawaiian cuisine, this popular restaurant is sure to please. While Editor Catherine Hosman was on a short leave of absence, I have had the opportunity to fill in as the interim associate editor of Tex Appeal. I have enjoyed working with our resourceful contributors who act as muses this month to spark your own home and garden ideas. May you enjoy the issue as much as we have. Warmly,

Jessica Pearce

Tex Appeal Interim Associate Editor jpearcekdh@gmail.com 254-501-7442

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

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

TEMPLE DAILY TELEGRAM 10 S. Third St., Temple, TX 76501

Publisher SUE MAYBORN Editorial Director M. Clare Haefner Editor CATHERINE HOSMAN Interim Associate Editor Jessica Pearce Copy Editor LEE JAMES Graphic Designers RENEE BLUE JULIE NABOURS Contributors FRED AFFLERBACH MITCHEL BARRETT GAIL DILLON KARIN MARKERT JESSA McCLURE JAMES PAUL STANLEY WILLIAM TORO VALERIE L. VALDEZ Advertising 254-774-5264 or 254-501-7494

Tex Appeal Magazine is published monthly by Frank Mayborn Enterprises, Inc. 10 S. Third St., 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 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: Call 254-774-5264 or 254-501-7494. Editorial: Contact Catherine Hosman at 254-501-7511 or edittexappealmagazine@ gmail.com or Jessica Pearce at 254-501-7442 or jpearcekdh@gmail.com.

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DID YOU KNOW? You can read back issues of Tex Appeal Magazine at texappealmag.com. Log on today to find the current issue and older editions of Tex Appeal. You also can connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/texappealmagazine. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Contributors Gail Dillon

Jessa McClure

Valerie L. Valdez

FreD AFFLERBACH

MITCHEL BARRETT

William Toro

KARIN MARKERT

James Paul Stanley

is a journalist and a former Air Force Public Affairs officer. She also writes a weekly blog, “Married To It,” about life as a military wife and mother, for the Killeen Daily Herald, and a weekly column for the Fort Hood Herald. She and her family are stationed at Fort Hood.

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.

is an award-winning photographer and owner of Mitchel Barrett Photography. Although originally from the British Virgin Islands, for the past 12 years he has come to call the city of Killeen his home. He developed his love of photography while attending high school and the Killeen Career Center, and has enjoyed life behind the lens ever since. When not busy taking photos, you can probably find him at the movies with friends or at home with his family and two dogs.

is a freelance photographer, owner of KLMarkert Photography, Army wife and mother of three. Her passion for photography started when her father built a darkroom in 1983. Karin has photographed the last couple of years in the Washington, D.C., area, explored Nepal several times through her camera lens, and is now capturing life and scenes in Central Texas. 10

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

is a part-time freelance writer and fulltime mom to two energetic children. She is a long-time resident of Bell County and spends her time running around with her kids, volunteering and channeling her creativity. She finds inspiration everywhere and uses her experiences to create articles that inspire and touch those who read them.

is an award-winning writer and novelist, college graduate at age 50, and former long-haul trucker. His stories and columns have been published in daily newspapers across Texas. His novel, “Roll On,” debuted in 2012, and is an interstate odyssey about a man afflicted with an incurable wanderlust despite pressure from family and friends to settle down. Fred lives in Cedar Park with his wife, Diane, and enjoys perusing Central Texas backroads with a keen eye out for roadrunners, old trucks and lipstick sunsets.

is a freelance photographer, a longtime resident of the Killeen-Fort Hood area and the a son of a retired soldier. He attended Texas State Technical College where he earned an Associate of Applied Science in media communications and information. His background includes contributing to the Waco ISD Television sports program and having photographs published in the Killeen Daily Herald. He lives in Killeen with his boxer, Lulu.

is a Central Texas freelance photographer. His interest in photography began while serving at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, Russia. Retired from 20 years of military service, he had the opportunity to travel to many countries and capture life through the lens. He resides in Killeen with his wife, Julie, and daughter Sarah, and teaches basic photography for the Continuing Education department at Central Texas College.

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

TexTalk

neighbors 14 flavours 16 beauty 18 spotlight 20 scene 22 calendar 26 well-fed head 30

Planting with purpose

Master Gardener Karen Colwick works in a garden bed. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexTalk neighbors

Master Gardener offers advice for summer blooms, vegetables

By Jessa McClure Photographs by Julie Nabours

rilliantly colored blooms of every hue stand out among waxy, green leaves and stalks of perfectly trimmed grasses. There, in the middle of the brilliance, basking in the sun and the beauty of her work, is Master Gardener Karen Colwick. She has been gardening for most of her life, and although she has spent countless hours fine-tuning her green thumb, she has declared anyone can create a space outside that is not only lovely to look at, but fruitful, too. If you’re looking to start or improve your garden this spring, Colwick said April is the optimal time to plant. “You can plant perennials or annuals,” she advised. “Perennials will last all year long and come back next year; annuals have to be replanted every year because they are not winterhardy.”

What can be planted now? Perennials The master gardener, who has worked with the Texas Master Gardeners Association and helped start several community gardens around the state, said she chooses these perennials because of their hardiness and ability to stand up to the Texas heat. “These are all perennials we call ‘superstars,’” Colwick said. “They’re strong and they’re intended for Texas. They can’t get this designation except from Texas A&M University, and that means they’ve been under trial and held up.” Flowering Plants Hibiscus: This flowering plant comes in a variety of colors, resembles the tropical hibiscus, and can withstand colder temperatures than its tropical cousin. Texas Lantana: This tough little plant has bright orange and yellow blooms and can resist all of the Texas elements, including heat, drought and even prying deer. New Gold: a yellow-tinged version of Texas lantana that is just as hardy as its orange-colored cousin Salvia: These pretty plants come in a variety of colors, including blue, black and 14

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Master Gardener Karen Colwick shows off the tools of her trade.

purple, and are a favorite of gardeners because they are easy to grow and resist heat and drought. “These will bloom all summer, and some will even bloom into frost,” Colwick said. Shade-loving Plants Plumbago: This shrub is great for shaded areas and contains large, colorful blooms that can be pink, red, purple, blue or white. Mist flowers: This plant has brilliant blue and white blooms. It begins blooming in the latter part of the summer and blooms into fall. They are known for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.

Roses Belinda’s Dream: This variety is an Earth-Kind rose. These roses don’t require as much water or upkeep. They have all the beauty of a delicate tea rose, but are much more disease tolerant. They were actually created by a mathematics professor at Texas A&M University. “As long as you trim off the dead blooms, then they will produce all summer long,” Colwick said. “I still had Belinda’s Dream roses as late as November last year.” Shrubs Pride of Barbados: Also called Birds of Paradise, this shrub can reach up to four

Day lilies, left, and esperanza offer color all summer, as does the wild ginger rose, below. (Photos courtesy of Karen Colwick)

or five feet tall and has rich blooms with striking color. Esperanza: These are also called Yellow Bells for their beautiful yellow blooms that last all summer long.

Annuals These plants can often be found in the big-box stores at affordable prices. They offer bright, colorful blooms all summer, but they must be replanted every year. Marimum: This is considered a “superstar” marigold. Tidal Wave: This plant handles summer weather without curling up and comes in a variety of colors. Zinnia: These are easy to plant and grow; they come in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes. “I was just looking at my Burpee (seed catalog), and they have zinnias in every color from green to deep purple to black,” Colwick said. “They have improved a lot over the years and there are more choices.” Vegetables Once you’ve planted a garden full of colorful flowers, roses and shrubs, then you’re ready to plant some vegetables. “Tomatoes, peppers and herbs are good to plant now,” Colwick said. “They will produce up until frost. Last year, I actually harvested my last tomatoes on Dec. 3.” ANy advice for gardeners? Colwick said it is vitally important to have good soil if you’re going to have a successful garden. This can be accomplished

by adding nutrients and proper drainage. “Add things that are going to keep your soil loose and help it drain well. None of these plants like ‘wet feet,’” she said. “Add lots of compost and don’t plant them too deeply. They also need to be fertilized and watered initially.” Once the plants are established, especially roses, you don’t have to water them every day. A weekly watering will keep the soil moist without drowning your plants. Using potting mix such as Miracle Grow is OK, too, Colwick said. Drainage is important to successful growth and harvest. “Make sure your containers drain,” she said. “I put plastic peanuts in the bottom of my pots that don’t weigh them down, but give them drainage.” Decomposed granite is great for plants when added to soil. The grains in the granite help keep the soil pores open and draining properly. Above all, Colwick’s best gardening advice is to spend time in your garden every day. “Walk around and look at your plants. You’ll be able to see if something is chewing on your plants, or if a plant’s looking a little yellow. Just constantly look at your garden.” Colwick said she has found great joy in creating her impressive garden and helping others create thriving green spaces for themselves. “It gives me a chance to get out and be in nature, seeing things grow and working with my hands. I’m diabetic, so it keeps me active, and it’s just fun. It’s just peaceful to be out in the garden. You always find something to do to make it better.” TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexTalk flavours

C & H Hawaiian Grill offers plate lunches packed with flavor Story by Gail Dillon Photographs by Mitchel Barrett

hen Hensan Timo and his wife, Cora, moved to Killeen, they couldn’t find a restaurant that served the hearty plate lunches that are popular in Hawaii. Hensan, who was born in Samoa but raised in Hawaii, figured if they were craving plate lunches, others were as well. The couple opened C & H Hawaiian Grill almost 12 years ago. “Plate lunches are always something we look forward to ... and we couldn’t find them anywhere in (Killeen),” said Hensan, explaining that a plate lunch includes a scoop of rice, macaroni salad “and whatever meat you can throw on it.” They moved to Killeen from Portland, Oregon, in 2003 because their two sons were both stationed at Fort Hood and they wanted to help support them. At the time, Operation Iraqi Freedom had just begun and both their boys were deployed. “We came here and we were just going to open a little gift shop,” he said. The couple decided to take a gamble and open a restaurant instead in January 2004. Hensan said their timing wasn’t ideal since about 20,000 Fort Hood soldiers were deployed then. “We had to do a lot of selling and convincing and all that stuff.” When they first opened, Hensan said there was initially some hesitation about Hawaiian cuisine, and the misconception that it was all “spicy.” “But,” he said, “it’s really not the kind of food that you have to have an acquired taste for.” Word of mouth became a powerful tool, and soon they had long lines of people at lunchtime. In March 2014, the Timos — along with new partner Kapp Vaitautolu, Cora’s brother Dave Langford, and his wife, Evelyn — decided to open another C & H in Copperas Cove. Evelyn said their most popular menu items at the Cove location are the Teriyaki Chicken, the Mixed Plate (which features three meats) and the Kalua Pork, which is a popular luau dish. All three plates come with rice and macaroni salad, “one of the main staples in Hawaii,” Hensan said, who 16

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Kapp Vaitautolu, chef at C & H Hawaiian Grill in Copperas Cove, chops ribs as he prepares the variety of dishes served.

cites flavor as the reason their meats are so savory. “The soy sauce comes from Hawaii,” he said. “The soy sauce in Hawaii is low in sodium, so it creates a different flavor from the Kikkoman brand or some of your

other typical soy sauces.” Garlic, ginger and other spices also make their meats unique, as well as the fact that they marinate them for hours before cooking. Kapp Vaitautolu is the new Cove restaurant’s co-owner and head chef. “I

Teriyaki Beef is a popular dish at C & H Hawaiian Grill.

learned cooking at a young age,” he said. “Where we’re from, the men do the cooking.” (He hails from the South Pacific.) He said his favorite dish to make is the Teriyaki Chicken. Other items on the menu include the Teriyaki Burger, Loko Moko (hamburger served with gravy and two eggs), and the Laulau Plate (pork wrapped in taro leaves and steam-cooked until tender). C & H’s “Aloha Spirit” sets it apart from other establishments and makes people want to return, Hensan said. Describing Hawaiian food as a blend of various Asian countries’ dishes, including Thai, Japanese, Chinese and Polynesian, he said their recipe for success is simple: “We just cook the food because it’s good, because we want people to enjoy it.”

If you go 105 E. Avenue E Copperas Cove Phone: 254-238-8485 Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday (closed Sundays) 903 E. Rancier Ave. Killeen Phone: 254-554-7755 Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday (closed Sundays)

Teriyaki Beef Chef Vaitautolu shares his recipe for mouth-watering Teriyaki Beef, which is best served over steamed white rice. Preparation time: 4 hours Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 4 Ingredients 1 pound boneless beef inside round, ¾ inch thick 2 teaspoons sesame oil ¼ cup Aloha BBQ Shoyu Sauce ¼ cup Aloha Mango Pineapple Sauce ¼ cup Coca-Cola ¼ cup ginger ¼ cup garlic ¼ cup onion ¼ cup green onion Directions: 1. Slice beef into very thin strips. 2. Combine ginger, garlic, onion and green onion with BBQ Shoyu and Mango Pineapple sauces and Coca-Cola to make a marinade. 3. Add beef to marinade and refrigerate for 4 hours. 4. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the marinated beef strips until they brown and the juices evaporate.

Women’s Apparel, Jewelry & Accessories, Baby & Kids Gifts & Apparel, Furniture & Home Decor, Collegiate, Yarn Shop, “Artisian’s Alley”, Men’s Gifts, Wine Gifts and More!

Open 7 days a week!

The Shoppes on Main 22 N. Main Street, Salado

254-947-0888

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TexTalk beauty

Beauty in the Bag

By JESSICA PEARCE

How do you stay beautiful on the go?

Each month Tex Appeal peeks inside the bag of one busy woman to reveal her best beauty secrets and must-have essentials.

Cora Martinek

Owner & Interior Designer Wedgwood Interiors

ESSENTIALS she CARRIES Dolce and Gabbana, Scarlet 195: This gorgeous, vibrant red lipstick is long lasting and has a beautiful, light fragrance to it. I always carry red just in case I need a more dramatic look. Yves Saint Laurent, Rouge Pur Couture No. 10: This is the perfect nude-beige lipstick. It is my usual everyday lipstick, and it’s extra creamy and very long lasting. Chanel Natural Finish Pressed Powder 30 Naturel, Translucent 2: Over the course of the day, I like to use this lighter powder for touch-ups. Wallet: Fuchsia is one of my favorite colors, and Michael Kors makes some great accessories. This wallet has an ample amount of pockets inside for good organization. I love that it’s divided into three sections.

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Notepad: I don’t always use the notes feature on my phone, so I like to have a pad of paper on hand. I have an appreciation for the Japanese culture, and this compact pad has a beautiful Japanese motif. Sunglasses: These help prevent small wrinkles around the eyes. Business Card Holder: I always like to be prepared and have my cards on hand. A nice card holder always looks professional. Chewing Gum: I found Birthday Cake chewing gum at Target, and I had to try it. It does taste like birthday cake, but without the calories! Smartphone: My phone assists me in connecting with people, and I frequently use the navigation application.

Photographs by KARIN MARKERT

Most valuable TOOL in her BAG

I need my day planner; it keeps me on schedule. I don’t like using my phone to schedule appointments — I’m a pencil and paper kind of person. What is your signature beauty item? Acqua di Parma Colonia. This Italian fragrance was created in Parma, Italy in 1916. It contains Sicilian citrus, lavender, rosemary, lemon verbena, damask rose, vetiver, sandalwood and patchouli. It was popular with celebrities in the 1950s, and I’ve made it my own. Do you have a helpful hint? I like to layer my fragrance for a longlasting effect. Bathe with your favorite bath and shower gel fragrance, then apply body lotion from the same fragrance collection. Finish off by layering the collection’s perfume or eau de toilette spray on your pulse points. What is one essential item that makes life easier? I use Anastasia Beverly Hills Beauty Express Portable Brow Kit in Blonde. This gives me great-looking eyebrows with ease. The kit comes with various stencils for perfect arch shaping, and a wonderful little brush for quick and easy application. It’s the best one on the market.

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

The 2015 Parade Homes ARNOLD BUILDERS 6353 Siena Circle TEMPLE

CAROTHERS EXECUTIVE HOMES 16 Lago Verde, Belton 3218 Twin Ridge, Belton

DR HORTON 1540 Sandstone Loop, Temple 1118 Fawn Lilly Drive, Temple

EAGLE RIDGE BUILDERS 7233 Valley Mist TEMPLE

KIELLA HOMEBUILDERS 10409 Windy Pointe TEMPLE

MF CONSTRUCTION 119 Sereno Vista BELTON

OMEGA BUILDERS 10311 Findley Drive TEMPLE

RANDY TAYLOR CUSTOM HOMES 2284 Woodland Bend SALADO

RILEY SCOTT CUSTOM HOMES 417 Green Park, Belton 536 Kings Court, Temple 4907 Wildflower Lane, Temple

STELLAR HOMES 1645 Altavista Loop TEMPLE

STILLWATER CUSTOM HOMES 49 Stirrup, Morgans Point Resort 56 Wrangler, Morgans Point Resort

TVJ BUILDERS 106 Connor TEMPLE

spotlight TexTalk

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TexTalk scene

Temple Food Truck Fest, Battle of the Bands attract crowd

4 1. Mo Blues performs during the Battle of the Bands in Temple on March 7. 2. Dave Irons is the lead singer/acoustic guitarist for Black Water. 3. Owner Melvin, left, and JC Lowe of Loweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Legs prepare meat for Food Truck Fest. 4. Black Water won the Battle of the Bands. Photographs by WILLIAM TORO and MICHAEL MILLER 22

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

scene TexTalk

Newest belles debut at Wildflower Ball in Temple 2

1. The 2015 Wildflower Belles and their Escorts pose for a photo at the 24th annual Wildflower Belle Ball at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center in Temple. 2. Dawna and John Mischtian laugh as a funny story is told at their table during dinner. 3. The Grazioso String Quintet performs classical music at the ball. 4. Mary-Catherine Clark dances with Herbert Clardy as other belles and their escorts take the floor at the Wildflower Ball. Photographs by MITCHEL BARRETT TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexTalk scene

3 Casino Night supports A&M-Central Texas

5 4

1. Randy McCauley and Aimee Nesse enjoy the evening March 6 at the Greater Killeen Young Professionals Rock the Foundation Casino Night at the Courtyard by Marriott in Killeen. The sixth annual event raised money for scholarships provided by the Texas A&M University-Central Texas Foundation. 2. Kristine Tolan of Central Texas College Enactus plays the slots. 3. Killeen City Councilman Terry Clark and his wife, Robin. 4. Lashanda Wilson hits “21” at the Black Jack table. 5. Anitra Washington deals cards to Jared Foster at the Black Jack table. Photographs by JAMES PAUL STANLEY 24

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

scene TexTalk

Vienna Boys Choir entertains crowd at Temple CAC 3

4 1. The Bohnam Middle School Varsity Orchestra, directed by Joe Ortiz, plays before the Vienna Boys Choir performance Feb. 28 at the Cultural Activities Center in Temple. 2. Wildflower Guild Belles, from left, Kendall Kaulfus, 16, Madison Smith, 17, Sarah Hudec, 16, and Morgan Thomasson, 17, take a brief pause while handing out programs. 3. From left, Becky Bradley, John Bruce, Rick Thomssen, and Denise Thomssen discuss news about the Central Texas Orchestral Society. 4. Cynthia Clark, left, Carla Han Clardy, and Krista Kulfus, all members of the Wildflower Guild, catch up with each other before the Vienna Boys Choir performance.

Photographs by KARIN MARKERT TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexTalk calendar

Downtown Citywide Garage Sale April 4, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Find treasures, trinkets, furniture and more. The event takes place rain or shine and is free for all yard sale shoppers. For more information, call Liz Sherman at 254-547-7571. Downtown Copperas Cove Avenue E Copperas Cove Wildflower Appreciation Day April 4, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come celebrate these natural beauties and learn to identify the most common Central Texas wildflowers as you explore the Santa Fe Gardens adjacent to the museum. Get your green thumb growing as we share tips on easy backyard composting and water conservation. This free event is open to the public. For more information, call Sandra Mojica at 254298-5585 or go to www.templeparks.com. Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum, Santa Fe Gardens 315 W. Avenue B Temple Santa Fe Market Days April 4, 11, 18, 25; 9 a.m to 1 p.m. The Santa Fe Market Days is a new weekly event that will be held every Saturday all year round featuring arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, vintage items and live music. Walk around and shop for all sorts of things while enjoying the company of the community and

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Children hunt for Easter eggs last year in Harker Heights. Belton plans an egg hunt April 4.

listening to local bands perform. For vendor information, call Stephanie Greger at 254-298-5380 or go to sfmarketdays. com. Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum 315 W. Avenue B Temple

Easter Egg Hunt April 4, 9:45 a.m. check-in; 10 to 11 a.m. egg hunt The Easter Bunny has hidden eggs all over the Bell County Courthouse. Come bring your basket and get ready to hunt. If you do not have a basket, Aware Central Texas will provide one for a donation. Check-in is at the corner of Central and East Streets. Admission is $1 per person. For more information, go to facebook.

com/discoverdowntownbelton or call 254933-3332. Bell County Courthouse 101 W. Central Ave. Belton

New Crochet Class Cultural Activities Center April 7, 14, 21, 28; 10 to 11:30 a.m. Experienced instructor Betty Reichert teaches a four-week class that covers simple crochet stitches, reading patterns, and how to plan projects. The cost is $50. Supplies (purchased separately) are at www.cacarts. org/crochet-sewing and can be purchased at local craft stores. For registration, go to www.cacarts.org or call 254-773-9926. Cultural Activities Center 3011 N. Third St. Temple

Antique Car Clubs April 9-12, all day: Packard Car Club April 17-18, all day: Lincoln Car Club The Packard and Lincoln antique car clubs will display vintage cars in front of the Stagecoach Inn in Salado. This free event is open to the public. For more information, call the Stagecoach Inn at 800-732-8994. Stagecoach Inn 401 S. Stagecoach Road Salado Spring Fashion Show and Luncheon Central Texas College April 10, 11:30 a.m. The Central Texas College Foundation and Metroplex Health System hold their annual fashion show and luncheon to benefit the CTC Department of Nursing scholarship program. Guests will enjoy the latest spring fashions, entertainment by Season 7 “The Voice” candidate Reagan James, and lunch served by the Men in Pink. Tickets are $50 per person or $400 to reserve a table. For tickets or more information, call the CTC Foundation office at 254-526-1662. Killeen Civic and Conference Center 3601 South W. S. Young Drive Killeen Boots & Buckles South of the Border Gala CCISD April 11, 7- 11:30 p.m. Enjoy a strolling mariachi band, silent auction, sizzling fajitas, dancing and

calendar TexTalk music by Fireside. The guest presenters will be historical storytellers Les Ledger and the Cove Cronies. Tickets are $50, with all proceeds going toward funding for Copperas Cove public schools. For tickets or more information, call 254-547-1227. Copperas Cove Civic Center 1206 W. Avenue B Copperas Cove

call 254-773-9926. Cultural Activities Center 3011 N. Third St. Temple

Youth Arts Festival April 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. From bubbles to paint to dance, children explore art in a big way. Bring your children to celebrate the arts with crafts, music, performers and bouncy houses. For more information, call 254-953-5491. Harker Heights Public Library 400 Indian Trail Harker Heights

3rd Annual Family Promise Bed Races April 11, 9 a.m. bed racer inspection; 10 a.m. parade and races Family Promise of East Bell County holds its annual fundraiser to provide services to homeless families in the community. Enjoy a parade, bed races, vendors and a bounce house for the little ones. Registration is $100 per racing team. For registration or more information, email Ken Whipple at familypromisetemple@ yahoo.com or call 254-773-9980. North Belton Middle School 7907 Prairie View Road Temple

Marcia Ball Cultural Activities Center April 11, 6 p.m. optional dinner; 7:30 p.m. concert This Texas-born, Louisiana-raised pianist/vocalist/songwriter is famous worldwide for igniting a full-scale roadhouse rhythm and blues party every time she strolls on stage. Enjoy an optional pre-concert dinner from 6 to 7 p.m. provided by the Hilton Garden Inn, Great American Grill ($14). Concert tickets are $22 in advance, and $27 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, go to https://app.artspeople.com/index.php?show=50684 or

Taste and See Cove April 14, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. We’ve all heard the saying, “Try before you buy.” Sample the best of what Cove restaurants, caterers, bakers and businesses have to offer. Tickets purchased before April 9 are $10 per adult and $5 per child age 12 and younger, or $25 for a family of four (two adults and two children). For ticket purchasing or more information, go to http://bit.ly/1C9ZtQq or call Liz Sherman at 254-547-7571. Copperas Cove Civic Center 1206 W. Avenue B Copperas Cove Continued

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TexTalk calendar

2015 Parade of Homes April 17-19 and April 24-26 The Temple Area Builders Association presents a closer look at 17 homes from 12 of the area’s finest builders. Home prices range from $240,000 to $700,000, with locations in Temple, Belton, Salado and Morgan’s Point. Tour the homes over two weekends: from 6 to 8 p.m. April 17 and April 24, noon to 5 p.m. April 18-19 and April 25-26. For more information, go to www. tahb.org. Texas Master Gardeners Conference April 16-18 The Bell County Master Gardeners are hosting this year’s state conference, with guest speakers and workshops on a variety of gardening topics as well as tours of area attractions. For more information, the event schedule and to register by April 1, go to http://txmg.org/2015tmgaconference. Bell County Expo Center 301 W. Loop 121 Belton 76th Annual Lions Follies April 17, 7 p.m.; April 18, 2 p.m. matinee and 7 p.m. evening show The Temple Lions Club presents its annual talent show fundraiser featuring theater, song and dance from local Lions Club members. Enjoy a silent auction, door prizes and fun for the whole family. The Saturday 2 p.m. matinee is $5 per person, and the two evening shows are

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Find fresh food and other items at Belton Market Days.

$10 per person. For more information, go to http://cacarts.org/on-stage or call Michelle Fettig at 254-913-3840. Cultural Activities Center 3011 N. Third St. Temple

Belton Market Days April 18, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy buying, selling and trading in

historic downtown Belton. Come see our vendors and farmers market and enjoy food and entertainment. This event is held every third Saturday of the month and is open to the public. For more information, go to www.downtownbelton. com or call 254-939-3551. Downtown Belton 412 E. Central Ave. Belton

Family Campout April 18, noon to April 19, noon Spend quality family time together and get “unplugged” by enjoying a variety of outdoor recreation activities. There will be campfire stories, s’mores, Dutch oven cooking demonstrations, geo-caching, Leave No Trace information, games and more. Vendors will also be present from 12 to 5 p.m. on Saturday to provide information and games for campout participants. Families must bring their own tent and sleeping supplies. To sign up for the campout, go to https://apm. activecommunities.com/harkerheightspr/ Activity_Search/family-campout-spring2015/691. For more information, call Sarah Mylcraine at 254-953-5466 or email smylcraine@ci.harker-heights.tx.us. Dana Peak Park 3800 Comanche Gap Road Harker Heights 3rd Annual Art & Wine on the Square April 25, noon to 7 p.m. Come join us for a day of art and wine appreciation around the historic Bell County Courthouse Square. This free event features Texas artists and wines as well as international vintages. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased in advance at http://artandwineonthesquare.ezevent. com/. For more information, call My Giving Tree Gift Shop & Gallery at 254933-8733. Bell County Courthouse 101 W. Central Ave. Belton Dueling Pianos in the Park April 25, 7 to 9 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and your favorite group of friends for a uniquely interactive sing-along, dancealong, fun-filled show. This free family event is open to the public. For more information, call 254-298-5440. Lion Sam Farrow Amphitheater 4320 Lions Park Road Temple Temple Symphony Orchestra Season Finale April 25, 7:30 p.m. Enjoy Beethoven, Artunian and Tchaikovsky as the Temple Symphony Orchestra takes to the stage one last time this season. Tickets are $20-$22 for adults

calendar TexTalk

Art & Wine on the Square is April 25 in Belton.

and $5 to $6 for students; children must be at least 6 years of age to attend. Activeduty military and dependents attend free. For tickets or more information, email temple@templetx.org or call 254-778-6683. Temple College Mary Alice Marshall Performing Arts Center 2600 S. First St. Temple

Paint the Ranch Red American Heart Association Gala April 25, 6 p.m. cocktails, silent auction; 7 p.m. dinner, live music and dancing Come join us for an elegant evening benefiting the American Heart Association. This year’s Texas-chic party will be at Tenroc Ranch in Salado. Dinner will be provided by The Range restaurant with live entertainment by NBC’s The Voice contestant Holly Tucker. Tickets are $125/person or $225/couple. For tickets or more information, call Brittany Cervantes at 979-268-0068 or email Brittany.cervantes@heart.org. Tenroc Ranch, Blue Heron Room 5471 Thomas Arnold Road Salado Community Book Sale Friends of Harker Heights Public Library April 25, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Discover gently used books and audiovisuals sure to become your new favorites. Hardback books, CDs, DVDs and audio books are $1; paperback books are 50 cents. Children’s books are 10 to 50 cents. For more information, call the library at 254-953-5491. Harker Heights Public Library 400 Indian Trail Harker Heights Email calendar items to jpearcekdh@ gmail.com for consideration. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexTalk well-fed head

Book makes gardening in Central Texas easy for all skill levels

By M. CLARE HAEFNER

hen it comes to gardening, there are thousands of books available, from step-by-step guides for beginners to technical tomes with soil nutrient ratios and the science behind successful plant growth only someone with a degree in botany could understand. While many guides offer brilliant photographs of flowers, fruits, vegetables and trees, few focus on specific regions of the country, which can make it difficult to find plants that will grow in your garden. Anyone who’s tried to grow plants in Central Texas knows the soil can be difficult to figure out. Much of the ground west of Interstate 35 is rocky and clay-based, not the friendliest for many plants. While soil east of I-35 is richer, it also often lacks nutrients many plants need to survive. Add in summer’s heat and the ongoing drought, and picking plants can be a real chore — unless you’re a Bell County Master Gardener or have a great guide like “Easy Gardens for North Central Texas” by Steve Huddleston and Pamela Crawford. The book is focused on 50 counties in North Central Texas, and includes the cities of Killeen, Temple, Waco, Abilene, Wichita Falls, Dallas, Fort Worth and Sherman, with lots of places in between. Even better, it shows beginners and experienced gardeners alike how to create gorgeous gardens with colorful, low-water plants that grow well in the region. “Easy Gardens” features more than 1,000 photos of annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees that thrive with little or no irrigation and minimal care — many that also attract butterflies. Starting with tips to identify your soil type and prepare beds for planting, the book details about 150 examples of showstopping color combinations, and offers watering and money-saving tips. “Easy Gardens” is a fantastic guide, with easy-to-follow instructions and clear, concise writing anyone can understand. With sections on annuals, perennials, 30

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

shrubs, vines and trees, you’ll find everything you need to get started or improve your yard and gardens. What’s more, the book highlights many blue-ribbon plants that “perform the same way every year,” have “established records” and are “well adjusted to the Texas environment, including high heat and humidity.” These plants also need little care once established, making them easy plants to incorporate. Red-ribbon plants are almost as easy to care for and stand up nearly as well to tough Texas environments. Huddleston has spent more than 25 years gardening in North Central Texas; his experience and expertise shines in “Easy Gardens.” “Influenced by a greatgrandfather who was ‘born with a hoe in his hand,’ and a grandmother who let him plant anything in her yard,” Huddleston’s been gardening since he was 3, according to the book. He now works at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, where many of the plants in the book are on display. Crawford, who specializes in color, has written many gardening books and contributes to several dozen magazines and newspapers. Together, they developed a guide every Central Texas gardener should read.

“luxuries for your lucky little ones”

7410 W. Adams Avenue No 170, Temple 254.773.5200 | Mon - Fri 10:00am - 5:30pm Sat 10:00am - 4:00pm

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Tuscan home design by Cameo Homes.

From Tuscan-feel to

Latest trends in new homes offer local buyers

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Tuscan home design by Cameo Homes.

Modern home design by Cameo Homes.

mid-century modern more options in style, design, energy efficiency

Story by Jessa McClure Photographs by KARIN MARKERT

hen Tim Farek, vice president of Cameo Homes in Killeen, turned on his television in the 1960s, he not only found amusement in the antics of a family living in the future, he also discovered a fondness for mid-century housing design exemplified in cartoons such as The Jetsons. “I always liked that design, and now we are seeing that style come back around in new home construction,” Farek said. “It features more glass and lower-pitched roofs.” Although the 50-year-old homebuilder’s generation grew up in homes built in

this style, Farek said it is actually the GenXers who are asking for a more contemporary, mid-century style when building their new homes. This trend and others are adding unique style to today’s housing market, and offering buyers even more options than in past decades.

Trends in Design “It’s been a very Mediterranean, Tuscan look for the past five or six years,” Farek said. “You see a lot of dark stucco and darker stone. Before 2006 it was rare to see stucco, but now it’s a big part of the design people want.” Chris Hodges of Eagle Ridge Homes in Temple said he is also seeing more and more homebuyers using the darker tones

on the exterior of their homes. “It used to be either brown tones or gray tones, but now they’re mixing them,” Hodges said. “I’ve also noticed a lot of mixing of traditional and contemporary styles.” Recently, Hodges put rustic cedar beams inside of a house with stucco. This blending of styles seems to be very popular with his customers, he said. Farek echoed this sentiment, saying that he is still seeing a demand for this style, but the desire to create a Tuscan look with dark tones is tapering off. “The biggest trend I see is that design is going more contemporary,” he said. Farek added that he has started to see Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Interior stone accents with arched doorways and ceramic “wood” flooring are seen in an Eagle Ridge Homes design.

this shift in new commercial construction as well. “If you look at the buildings and schools going up now, there’s that different look,” he said. “It’s not the old red brick schoolhouse: It’s very modern.” Despite new contemporary trends on the exterior, many of the old standbys for interior design have stood the test of time. “Open floor plans are something people are looking for right now,” said architect Tanya Mikeska-Reed of Architectural Edge Inc. “Granite is still a must and we’re seeing a lot of stained concrete floors.” Farek added that buyers prefer concrete floors because they are often cost-effective and go great with the Tuscan style that has been so popular in the last few years.

Trends in Structure Unlike the contemporary trend, Mikeska-Reed said she discovered her clients are asking for single-story homes that can be spread out over more land. “It’s very rare that we do multi-story 34

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Natural wood adds visual interest to home interiors as in this design by Architectural Edge Inc.

homes anymore unless they’re in a dense subdivision,” she said. Another big trend Farek has noticed in recent years is the push for greater energy efficiency in new homes. “Consumers are more educated and requesting more energy-efficient homes, and many of the buying programs that benefit veterans require homes to pass Energy Star testing before veterans can be approved for a new home,” he said. He said the testing was something Cameo Homes started doing several years ago because of such buying programs, and he has been amazed at the savings that homeowners have seen every month on their electric bills. “Sometimes when people move into these bigger homes, they get $600 or $700 electric bills, and most people don’t budget for that,” Farek said. “When the same size house is getting $200 or $250 electric bills because the home is energy efficient, that’s a good feeling for the homeowner.” Despite the increased popularity and

necessity of energy efficiency, Farek said it will drive up the initial price of new homes. “There are different processes and inspections that you have to do if you are building a new home to these standards,” he said. “It can drive the price up as much as $5,000, but when you are saving $200 or $300 a month, it’s a pretty good deal.”

Trends in Location “The majority of the whole industry is going to be lower-range homes,” Farek said. “We have two home series, and one of them is called our ‘lifestyle’ series. You get a solid home, but it’s more for people who have a certain amount to spend.” Because many of these budgeting homebuyers are young families looking for their first home, they are choosing to move right in the middle of the action, close to restaurants, shopping and schools. For those who are looking to retire, however, or have a little more elbow room, rural communities are popular. “In the custom market, we do have

Modern ranch home design by Cameo Homes. An Eagle Ridge Homes kitchen, seen below right, includes a gas range with pot filler, granite countertops and knotty alder cabinets.

This Eagle Ridge Homes design includes outdoor living space, including a stone fireplace.

some places where people are coming in from the Austin area to have a lower cost of living,” Farek said.

Personalizing Your Home With so many new trends in the housing market, there is almost no end to the possibilities when it comes to personalizing your home. If you have a strict budget and won’t be building a custom home, then adding your touch in the home’s interior can be a great way to customize your home. “We start with a base plan, and we’ll tailor it to the clients’ individual needs and help them incorporate their ideas without

letting them go overboard,” Hodges said. “We can also add niches, built-ins and arches to make the home feel customized.” Farek said today’s buyer is considerably more educated about the styles and materials they want to use, and shouldn’t hesitate to incorporate things they’ve seen on home improvement shows or in other homes they’ve seen. “Every once in a while you need fresh ideas, even if they are from TV,” Farek said. “It’s our job to take those ideas and guide the homeowner through the building process and help them choose colors, accents and styles that will truly make it a home.”

Interior stone accents add an old-world feel to homes like this one from Eagle Ridge Homes. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TOP: A vertical wall of contained gardens stands along a fence at the Hunter Homestead in Killeen. AT RIGHT: Curtis and Kristina Hunter stand in front of their vertical garden wall. ABOVE: A squash beetle threatens plants growing at the Hunter Homestead in this photo courtesy of Curtis Hunter. 36

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Plants grow in raised-bed gardens at the Hunter Homestead in Killeen. The Hunters grow a variety of produce, as seen below, in the photos courtesy of Curtis Hunter.

A higher flower

Curtis Hunter offers techniques for raised-bed gardening Story by Valerie L. Valdez Photographs by Karin Markert

ongratulations on your decision to start a raised vegetable garden! The weather has been enticing you to get your hands dirty, and you’re ready to get started, so what’s next? Ask Curtis Hunter for advice. A Killeen resident and a self-taught raised garden expert, Hunter built and maintains an impressive garden in his backyard. To say that Hunter was born with a green thumb is an understatement. He also was born with a contractor’s thumb, and both give him the diverse skills to tackle most garden and building projects. A native of Seattle, Curtis Hunter built homes before joining the Army in 2005 as a combat engineer. Injuries ended his military career, leaving him with plenty of

time on his hands. Never the type to sit still for long, he soon discovered the power of gardening to be both rewarding and therapeutic. His first project was to build a wisteria trellis with small planters on each end.

Through trial, research and some error, Hunter planted his first raised vegetable garden in 2014. It became prolific beyond his dreams, feeding other families even before his own. “We have a rule in my family, that whatever grows first, we give away to friends and family, and then we eat or can the rest,” Hunter said. Last year, Hunter’s garden yielded 150 cucumbers for pickles, 50-60 zucchini, 40 yellow squash, 75 green peppers, about 150 cayenne peppers and a lot of tomatoes. “It was a good year,” he said. He intentionally keeps his raised-garden concept simple, making it easy to manage. “First, find out what you want to grow and eat and then try to modify the space you have to fit raised beds in your yard, even if it means growing vegetables vertically by adding a trellis to the back of the Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

bed,” Hunter advised. “Next, know what’s good for the climate you live in and for the season you want to plant, whether in the spring and summer, or year-round.” There is no standard size for homemade raised beds. Hunter constructed 12 raised beds made from untreated Douglas Fir wood, with each bed measuring about 7 feet by 3 feet, filling each one to the top with soil. He said that he chose untreated lumber knowing he will have to replace the Douglas Fir beds in about five years, because he prefers not to use chemically treated wood. He gets all his dirt from Bell County Compost because “it’s rich dirt, and cheap,” Hunter said. This year he removed the top layer of soil and filled the beds with new soil. Since the soil is already nutrient rich, he uses store-bought fertilizer sparingly. He also tests the soil with a simple fourway analyzer that measures its Ph balance. Hunter recommends over-planting in each bed, too. “If several plants don’t survive, you still have enough plants to harvest,” he said. He buys seeds from Belton Feed & Seed and keeps them separate and labeled in plastic containers. Like many gardeners, he starts the seeds in small cups in late winter until warmer weather arrives, then plants the seedlings. Hunter’s “bible” is a large three-ring binder containing all his garden research with multiple sections, such as pest control, different planting zones (Central Texas is in Zone 8), and information on companion plants that grow well in the same bed. “Cucumbers grow well with strawberries, but they won’t grow well with onions and garlic; if you plant sunflowers with the ‘cukes, they will grow sweeter,” Hunter said. He offered another tip: “If you want hotter-tasting bell peppers, then plant cayenne peppers in the same raised bed with them.” To keep birds and squirrels out of his garden, he feeds them corn in small cups and bird feeders that he places away from his garden. About 30 different types of vegetables grow in his raised beds, including varieties of vegetables, such as two different types of broccoli, and five kinds of lettuce and spinach. In all, his planted garden spans 116 square feet. One clever idea Hunter has discovered for a vertical herb garden is to make use of rain gutters. “I had several rain gutters cut into 5-foot sections and put end caps on 38

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Kale grows in raised bed gardens at the Hunter Homestead in Killeen.

each section. Then, I hung them in rows on one part of the back fence, filled them with dirt, and planted different herbs in each gutter section, like rosemary and thyme,” he said. As an advocate of simple gardening methods, Hunter controls most pests with diatomaceous earth and a homemade mixture of a little Dawn dish soap with water that he sprays on the bugs. A common question he is asked is how much it costs for someone to start a small raised-bed vegetable garden. Hunter estimates that the initial costs for making several raised beds are not too expensive

— little more than $100 to build two beds, including lumber and landscaping fabric stapled to the bottom to keep weeds from growing, and compost material. In less than two years, Hunter is not only growing healthier vegetables, but envisioning a new future for himself and other veterans. He is exploring the idea of starting a veterans’ garden to share its therapeutic benefits. “Gardening is a good outlet that builds confidence,” he said. “People could get the companionship of being with other soldiers while growing something good to eat.”

Special advertising section

HOMESPEC Real Estate Inspections P.O. Box 1369,Temple | 254-770-8057 | homespec1.com

If you are buying, selling or building a home, HOMESPEC Real Estate Inspections involved will provide essential information. Founded in 1989 by Brad Phillips, HOMESPEC has been providing real estate, construction and FHA inspections to buyers and sellers for more than 25 years. Kelly Hankins joined HOMESPEC in 1998; HOMESPEC has four full-time inspectors covering all of Central Texas. “Our goal is to provide exceptional service to our customers who are purchasing an existing home or commercial property, or building a new home or commercial property. We provide them with information about the property so that they can make informed purchasing decisions,” said Phillips. “Instead of having just one person complete an inspection, HOMESPEC will typically put multiple inspectors on the job, which speeds up the inspection process,” Phillips stated. “We have many repeat customers that use us purchase after purchase. HOMESPEC’s inspectors are involved in continuing education programs so they are up to date on the latest products, building methods and codes.” Brad Phillips and Kelly Hankins

The company is also involved in state and national trade associations.

Eagle Ridge Builders

1208 South 31st Street, Temple | 254-931-1222 | eagleridgebuilders.net Eagle Ridge Builders, founded by Chris Hodges, takes pride in offering high quality new home construction and excellent customer service. Hodges started the company in 2003 following a back injury. He wanted to keep doing construction for others with the goal of building quality homes at affordable prices. He has many years of experience as a framer and builder. Family living and individualism are priorities for Hodges. These qualities allow him to be not only an excellent builder, but extremely flexible while making plan changes desired by the homeowner without jeopardizing the integrity of the structure. “We pride ourselves in customer involvement and step-bystep updates,” Hodges said. He offers customers progress inspections throughout the construction. Each home comes with a 10-year warranty. Eagle Ridge Builders has many of its own plans, but also welcomes buyers’ plans as well. Construction can be built on an Eagle Ridge lot or the buyer’s lot. Eagle Ridge will pay $5,000 in closing costs for customers who sign contracts with them during the upcoming Parade of Homes. Joann and Chris Hodges, owners TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Special advertising section

Budget Blinds

Temple and Killeen locations 254-654-1992 | budgetblinds.com/temple When Michael and Allison Dunn were affected by a corporate downsizing, they went in search of a franchising opportunity. They found the perfect fit with Budget Blinds, opening their Central Texas business in April 2014. “We chose Budget Blinds due to their commitment to their business owners and the fantastic partners and vendors that are part of our Vendor Alliance system,” the Dunns said, “and we chose the Temple and Killeen territories to purchase due to the fantastic growth of the Central Texas region.” They have a simple mission for their business: “We want to be the premier window covering specialists in the local area, offering customers the best products and services available, and to treat each customer as part of the family and not just a number.” Budget Blinds offers all types of interior and exterior window coverings, including blinds, shutters, shades, solar screens, draperies, enclosed door Allison and Michael Dunn blinds, decorative faux iron, and even high-quality area rugs. The Dunns have access to the best products at the best prices through the Vendor Alliance system that is exclusive to Budget Blinds owners and is not available at other window covering dealers. Budget Blinds also has the best warranties in the industry available to customers. Most of the products carry a five-year “No Questions Asked” warranty should there be accidental damage to the window covering in the first five years of ownership. “All of our business is conducted in the customer’s home,” the Dunns said. This allows the customer to actually see how the products will look and function in their home with their current colors and décor, versus trying to visualize the final look. “We care about our customers even after the sale,” the Dunns said. “We are creating ‘customers for life’ and are building our business through repeat customers and referrals.”

Charter Real Estate

3000 South 31st Street, Suite 500, Temple 254-778-6675 | charterres.com Established more than 28 years ago, Charter Real Estate is one of the top full-service real estate firms in Central Texas. Charter Real Estate is a professional real estate and property management company that offers commercial and residential services, including leasing, sales, management, maintenance, construction and development to a large client base of businesses and investors. Locally owned and operated, Charter Real Estate has been involved in several notable projects in the Temple/Belton area such as the renovation and leasing of Gateway Center (formerly known as Town & Country Mall) anchored by Cinemark, Ashley Furniture, and Gold’s Gym; the development and construction of Wildflower Court at Loop 363 & IH-35 where Natural Grocers, Olive Garden and Cracker Barrel Restaurants are located; and CentrePointe Plaza at 31st and the Loop with CVS, The Charter offices on 31st Street, Temple Wendy’s and the Schlotzsky’s building. Charter’s newest development currently under construction is Shoppes on the Hill, located at South 31st Street, across from Baylor Scott & White Hospital. Charter added four licensed associates to its team in the last year: Linda Childers Stellato, a Temple native and broker associate who has spent the last 30 years in commercial real estate in the San Antonio area, supervises the office operations and brokerage transaction management; Emily Kuykendall, who has a background in banking, is the new director of accounting; Jim Calhoun, a fourth-generation Temple native, oversees project management and works with the leasing team; Erik Ray recently joined the commercial brokerage team; and Paula Nottingham, an accredited commercial manager, handles the retail portfolio as she enters her 10th year with Charter Real Estate. 40

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Special advertising section

Brad Dragoo, branch manager

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation

Temple, Harker Heights, Waco and Georgetown 254-231-0597 | fairwaytxonline.com | NMLS#270043

A Navy veteran, former realtor and lifelong Bell County resident, Brad Dragoo is committed to serving Central Texas homebuyers, real estate professionals and the community. He is the branch manager for Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. Brad’s career in real estate began in 1995 when he returned to Central Texas with his family after serving on the USS Nimitz and USS California during Operation Desert Storm. He worked as a realtor under the mentorship of Sara Irvine, now the broker for Sojourn Real Estate, and for several years as a realtor for Mikeska Realty in Temple. His experience as a realtor gave Brad a good perspective on how to serve customers and real estate professionals when he joined Allied Home Mortgage in 2001. A few years later, he opened Advantage Home Loans. Always on the lookout for improvement, Brad began searching for a mortgage company to better serve the area. In 2006, he brought Fairway Independent Mortgage to Central Texas. In his own branch and at the corporate level, Brad is a longtime supporter of the Boot Campaign Housing Program, which sponsors mortgage-free homes for wounded veterans nationwide. Military awareness and appreciation are important to Brad and the people working at Fairway. He looks forward to continuing this support through the American Warrior Initiative, sponsored by Fairway Independent Mortgage. Brad is active in the community. He has been a member of the Temple Jaycees and is a member of the Temple Lions Club. He sponsors area sports teams, both at school and recreational

4801 South Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718 NMLS# 2289 | 877-699-0353 levels. Brad rarely says “No” when asked to sponsor a local event or team, especially when asked by local youth. Fairway also sponsors many local events, such as Relay for Life, CTCS Walk-A-Thon, TABA Skeet Shoot and various other school and community fundraisers. He has also been a member of the Troy Area Fair Boosters and a buyer for the Bell County Youth Fair since 2001. In 2013, Brad was named “Affiliate of the Year” by the Temple Area Builders Association. The following year he was named “Affiliate of the Year” by the Temple-Belton Board of Realtors. Brad places a high value on his relationships not only with customers, but with everyone involved in the home buying or refinancing process. Brad and his wife, Katie Dragoo (formerly Griggs), who is a native of Belton, live in Troy and have four wonderful children - Courtney, Jake, Connor, and Carlie. Brad and his knowledgeable group of loan officers and support staff look forward to serving your home buying or refinancing needs.

“

Fairway has built its business by making purchase loans a priority.

”

Brad Dragoo, branch manager

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Special advertising section

Kiella Homebuilders

7462 West Adams Avenue, Temple | 254-778-0092 | kiella.com Established in 1987 by John and Suzanne Kiella, Kiella Real Estate Group is an entity composed of companies involved in homebuilding, land acquisition and development, commercial real estate and investments. Because of its diverse business structure, Kiella Homebuilders is involved in strategic planning in local communities from land acquisition to subdivision development. Over the years Kiella has built thousands of homes, both speculative and custom, with the idea that where you live is defined by more than an address. They believe that home is truly where the heart is. Kiella’s friendly and educated sales team guides customers through the home-buying process from contract to closing. They take pride in quality craftsmanship, floor plans that meet lifestyle needs and prime subdivision locations. They are devoted to upholding the highest level of customer care and integrity. The 2015 Temple Area Builders Association Parade of Homes will feature a Kiella home at 10409 Windy Pointe in the Grove at Lakewood Ranch in Temple. Suzanne Kiella, John Kiella, Megan Kiella, Scott Kiella

Rabroker Fence Company, Inc.

100 E. FM 93, Temple | 254-718-8834 | rabrokerfence.com Rabroker Fence Company’s goal is to provide quality fencing and excellent customer service – all in a timely fashion. The business opened in January. “We saw a need in the market and were interested in opening a business in this area,” Sarah Rabroker said. “We have many community ties from previous careers.” Sarah grew up in the family business, so she understands the need to serve customers. “Our commitment is to serve customers as we would want to be served. We are conducting business in an ethical and moral fashion.” The company serves residential and commercial customers, offering a variety of fence options: wood; vinyl/PVC; iron; ornamental; chain link; temporary job-site/roadwork/conventions; parades and festivals; welded wire; gates; and repairs. Safety, security, and reliability are their goals, whether erecting temporary fencing for commercial needs, custom-built options for homeowners, or permanent fence structures. Michael Bruggman is the Rabroker Fence field manager and Scott Benson is the estimator. Estimates are free. Michael Bruggman, Sarah Rabroker, and Scott Benson

Laura White Interior Design

1023 Canyon Creek Drive #105, Temple | 254-773-1075 | laurawhiteinterior.com In business since 1980, Laura White received her degree from the University of Texas in Austin in interior design. Her husband George is the business manager, assisting in selection and installation of products. Laura has been an allied member of the American Society of Interior Designers since 1973 and has been named “The Best” in the Temple Daily Telegram’s Readers Choice awards for the last 15 years. Laura White Interior Design is a hands-on consultative interior design company that assists in sourcing and selection of materials, product applications and installations to achieve the best results. Services include residential and commercial design consulting, area rugs, wall coverings, faux finishing, custom bedding, slipcovers and upholstering, fabrics and trim sourcing and custom drapery hardware. They are a Hunter Douglas showcase dealer specializing in custom window treatments from shutters, blinds and shades to soft fabric treatments including cornices, soft valances and layered fabric panels. Their solar roller shades are a must for Texas windows. They also provide motorization installations for their products. Let Laura White give your home that “finishing touch.” George and Laura White 42

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Stellar Homes

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P.O. Box 292, Belton 254-933-8807 | stellarhomes.us Highly trained in engineering practices, Stellar Homes co-founders Mark Rendon and Rex Karl set out to establish a long-lasting image for exceptional standards. Always aiming to raise the bar in building practices, Mark and Rex strive for robust building techniques, while paying meticulous attention to details. Building at this caliber translates into future benefits, such as lower maintenance and higher energy efficiency. Stellar Homes makes it their standard practice to closely work with future homeowners to preserve their lifestyle and individuality. They offer this care and thoughtfulness for all homes with all manner of variables. It is the pride of craftsmanship and legacy that has afforded Stellar Homes over three decades of expert home building.

Rex Karl and Mark Rendon, co-founders

Stellar Homes will be featured in the 2015 Parade of Homes with a home at 1645 Altavista Loop in the Las Colinas development in Temple.

Jubilee Homes

P. O. Box 2421, Harker Heights 254-760-1493 | jubileehomes.net Jubilee Homes was started in 1987 by Christopher J. Butler. Before starting Jubilee Homes, Chris was a superintendent for another local builder from 1981-1987. His background before 1981 was as a carpenter and an outside salesman for a local lumber company. Chris has an associate degree in Building Construction Technology, and is accredited with the National Association of Home Builders as a graduate master builder. Chris is a past national director of the National Association of Home Builders, and twice past president of the Central Texas Home Builders Association. Chris Butler has built over 1,000 homes in Central Texas, and over 800 as part of Jubilee Homes. Jubilee Homes specializes in single-family homes ranging from 1,500 square feet to over 2,000 square feet.

Chris J. Butler, Owner & Graduate Master Builder

In the twenty plus years of building in Central Texas, we have become friends with many of our clients, and have been pleased to receive many referrals and repeat buyers. We have also established a close relationship with our contractors, some whom have been with us since 1987. Our houses are built with the attention to detail found in only some of the more expensive custom homes. We would like to welcome you as a friend, and know you will find that our homes are truly: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Homes Built to Appreciate.â&#x20AC;? TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Stillwater Custom Homes

unmatched...

2015 Bird Creek Terrace, Suite 104, Temple | 254-791-2800 | stillwaterhomes.com

Stillwater Custom Homes has been creating custom-designed and high-end spec homes throughout Central Texas for more than 20 years. They have been awarded Best of Show and Builder’s Choice awards for their homes’ incomparable designs, meticulous craftsmanship and superior quality. From diligent one-on-one planning and continual communication with home buyers, to utilizing upscale materials and the finest subcontractors in the field, Stillwater has consistently met or exceeded expectations. Above all, their goal is to provide customers with the very best home value and home buying experience. This philosophy continues to gain referrals and repeat sales from satisfied customers and realtors alike. Call Stillwater Custom Homes and get the personal attention you deserve to build the dream home you’ve envisioned. You can also visit their website for more information and neighborhood locations.

Fort Hood Area Association of Realtors (FHAAR) 306 W. Mary Jane Drive, Killeen 254-634-4412 | fhaar.com

Who are the Fort Hood Area Association of REALTORS®? Not all real estate agents are REALTORS®. Only those who agree to abide by a code of ethics that goes beyond what the law requires may join the Texas Association of REALTORS®. They protect the rights of property owners. They fight proposals that would increase the burdens on buying, selling, and owning real estate, and they bring property-owner concerns to the legislature, regulatory agencies and local authorities. Texas REALTORS® and the members of FHAAR do more than help you buy and sell real estate—we work with integrity.

FHAAR

Ables Top Hat Chimney Sweeps

808 S. 23rd Street, Copperas Cove | 254-547-6087 | ableschimneysweeps.com Our business began in 1980 after not being able to find a chimney sweep for our own chimney; due to high customer demand, we have continued in business ever since. I am Doug Ables; my wife Mary and I own and manage Ables Top Hat Chimney Sweeps with the help of our son, Shandy Ables, and our grandchildren, as well as George Reed. We clean and repair chimneys, fireplaces, stoves and most things to do with wood heat. Many times we can cure smoky fireplaces, replace faulty or leaking dampers and repair cracked chimney tops. We clean dryer vents and have also added air duct cleaning after repeated customer requests. We sell fireplaces and wood stoves as well. I was recently named Best Chimney Sweep in Central Texas by the readers of the Killeen Daily Herald for the second year in a row.

Doug Ables, Owner 44

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Special advertising section

Jamie and Jason Carothers, owners

Carothers Executive Homes 50 South Wheat Road, Belton 254-773-0600 | CarothersTx.com

Jason Carothers isn’t just building homes, he’s building communities. After several years of selling homes and being a construction manager for other companies, Jason and Jamie Carothers made the decision to venture on their own in 2004. That was the beginning of Carothers Executive Homes – an award-winning Temple-Belton area builder – known for quality construction, distinctive design and outstanding service. Jason Carothers is a fourth-generation builder. He appreciates the help and knowledge he has gained from family and mentors, especially his father, Bobby Carothers, and brother, B.J. Carothers, who still run a successful building company of their own. Carothers draws on his experience and knowledge of the issues people face when they build a new home to make the process as seamless and easy as possible. “Building can be stressful. My number one goal for my staff is to provide the most stress-free environment for our homeowners,” he said.

the exteriors of the homes. “Our mission is to provide a well-built home that maintains its value and is affordable for many different families,” Carothers said. “We provide many different price points of homes without reducing the quality, which protects the value of the home for years to come.” “It is great to see that we are accomplishing our goals when a buyer refers their friends and family to us or decides to build a new home again,” he added. Carothers credits an experienced staff and a team of loyal subcontractors for the company’s success. Amanda Harrimon, the vice president of operations, Shannon Harrimon, construction manager, and Scot Tyson, new home sales consultant, have been a part of the company since the beginning. “Many of our subcontractors work with us year-round,” he said. “The contractors know the quality and value standards of a wellbuilt Carothers Executive Home.”

“We have been able to eliminate customers having to drive all over Central Texas to make selections and meet vendors – with us you only need to make three visits in order to make all of the selections.”

“We believe that we are building more than just homes, we are building communities. We want our homeowners to enjoy their new home’s surrounding from the subdivision to the city to the schools, which is why we take an active role in our community. We don’t just build here, we live here.”

A key part of serving customers is their partnership with Carothers Interiors, a full-service floor and design center. The design team and the home building staff communicate daily on projects, assuring style and quality. Customers like the attention to detail in the interior finishes and the use of rock on the interiors as well as

“

A better way of living Jason Carothers, owner

”

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Special advertising section

Arnold Builders,

Adorn Refined Living & Décor 5293 South 31st Street, Suite 109, Temple 254-742-1072 | arnoldbuilders.com

Bobby and Jenny Arnold began Arnold Builders 20 years ago with the construction of their first home in Northcliff at Lake Belton. Since that time, they have had the honor of working with hundreds of clients in the Bell County area designing, constructing and decorating some of Central Texas’ most beautiful homes. They have weathered the ups and downs of the local economy, which have only revealed and increased their customer loyalty and staying power. Their home building business was the catalyst for starting their development company for residential and commercial projects. The newest master-planned community is Legacy Ranch in South Temple. This 175-lot community in the Belton ISD area will also include retail and multi-family projects. Bobby and Jenny Arnold, owners Jenny’s years of interior home design in homes inspired the opening of Adorn Refined Living and Décor located in Tuscan Square. Adorn provides upscale décor and furnishings in addition to personal consulting and design services. Arnold Builders will again be featured in the 2015 Parade of Homes, showcasing a home at 6353 Siena Circle in D’Antoni’s Crossing, Temple. Bobby and Jenny invite the public to stop by and meet them and their team, including Diana Beadnell of Adorn and Patrick Johnson, project manager for Arnold Builders. Bobby and Jenny are grateful to the community in which they were both raised. They are thankful their family has been so blessed.

SWBC Mortgage Corporation 4524 S. W.S. Young Drive, Ste. 101, Killeen 888-454-0337 or 254-634-2822 swbcmortgage.com | VATexashomeloans.com or leslielovett.com Corporate Office 9311 San Pedro, Suite 100 San Antonio, TX 78216 SWBC Mortgage NMLS # 9741 SWBC Mortgage Corporation is a full-service mortgage lender headquartered in San Antonio. Founded in 1988 as a wholly owned subsidiary of SWBC, the company operates retail branches in numerous states. SWBC has been named One of the Best Companies to Work For in Texas for the past four years by Texas Monthly. The Killeen, Texas branch opened in 2009. Leslie Lovett, branch manager, Jimmy Alexander, assistant branch manager, and Robert Pippin, senior loan officer, have more than 50 years in combined mortgage lending experience.

SWBC

Whether you are purchasing or refinancing, the Killeen SWBC Mortgage staff is poised to serve all your mortgage needs. We offer mortgage lending programs such as FHA, VA, TXVet, USDA/Rural Development; Conventional Conforming and Jumbo loans. If you have a mortgage need, SWBC Mortgage may have an option to meet your financial goals. The SWBC Mortgage Killeen, Texas office can serve all your mortgage needs for the entire state of Texas, as well as Louisiana. All loans are subject to credit and property approval. 46

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

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Jim Wright Company Build Jim Wright Company Building

Jim Wright Company im Wright Company 3800 S. W.S. Young Dr., Killeen

800 S. W.S. Young Dr., Killeen 254-526-5921 | jwcrentals.com 54-526-5921 | jwcrentals.com

Established in 1973 in a building owned by Leo Buckley (the former football coach and athletic director of Killeen High School), the Jim tablished inhead 1973 in a building owned by Leo Buckley (the former Wright Company (JWC) has grown into the largest and most successful ead football coach and athleticmanagement director ofcompany KilleeninHigh School), the This Jim rental and property the Fort Hood area. right Company (JWC) growth has grown thework, largest and most successful outstanding is due into to hard an entrepreneurial spirit, the constantmanagement implementationcompany of new technology, and Hood treatingarea. ownersThis and ntal and property in the Fort tenants honestly and fairly for over 40 years. We serve the needs of over utstanding growth is due to hard work, an entrepreneurial spirit, the 5,000 residential tenants and property owners each year. In addition, onstant implementation of new technology, owners we provide commercial sales, leasing,and and treating management as welland as nants honestly and fairly 40 years. customers. We serve the needs of over residential salesfor for over our management

000 residential tenants and property owners each year. In addition, Our office includes drive-thru windows, as a night e provide commercial sales,double leasing, andpayment management welldrop, as a well-trained staff of over 40 personnel including seven full-time sidential sales for our management customers.computer system featuring the property inspectors, and a state-of-the-art Property Ware property management system which allows our tenants

and property owners 24/7 access to their accounts 365adays a year. ur office includes double drive-thru payment windows, night drop, well-trained staff of over 40 personnel including seven full-time JWC is the only rental and property management company in the area operty inspectors, and a Certifi state-of-the-art computer system featuring the with a full-time ed Public Accountant (CPA); a Certifi ed Property operty WareManager property management system which allowsMember our tenants (CPM); a Certified Commercial Investment (CCIM) and Certifi ed Residential on staff. nd property owners 24/7 access toBroker their (CRB) accounts 365 days a year. Jim Wright and most of our staff are former military members or military

WC is the only rentalandand company in theWearea spouses, we property are honoredmanagement to serve the military community. are th a full-timealso Certifi (CPA);voted a Certifi ed Rental Property prouded to Public announceAccountant that we were recently THE BEST and Property Management Company inInvestment the Fort HoodMember Area for the NINTH anager (CPM); a Certifi ed Commercial (CCIM) CONSECUTIVE YEAR. THANK YOU ! We appreciate your business!!! nd Certified Residential Broker (CRB) on staff.

m Wright and most of our staff are former military members or military ouses, and we are honored to serve the military community. We are so proud to announce that we were recently voted THE BEST Rental and

JWC offers a comprehensive Property Management Program including: • Prompt Monthly Fund Disbursements JWC offers a comprehensive Property Management Program includin • Electronic Deposit of Rental Proceeds • Prompt MonthlywithFund Disbursements • Online Rent Payments our Tenant Portals • Electronic Deposit of Rental Proceeds • Low-cost Contracted Maintenance • Computerized Statements with....with our Tenant Portals • Online Rent Payments Income Statement • Low-cost Contracted Maintenance Expense Statement • Computerized Statements with.... Month-to-Date Figures Income Statement Year-to-Date Figures 24/7 Owner Access with our Owner Portals Expense Statement • Seven Full-time Property Inspectors.... Month-to-Date Figures Initial Move-In Inspections with Photos Year-to-Date Figures Periodic Inspections with Photos 24/7 Owner Access with our Owner Portals Move-out Inspections with Photos • Experienced Staff • Seven Full-time Property Inspectors.... • Tenant Screening Initial Move-In Inspections with Photos • Lease Preparation Periodic Inspections with Photos • Deposit Collection Move-out Inspections with Photos • Rent Collection • Eviction Processing Staff • Experienced • Preventative • Tenant Maintenance Screening • Repair Estimates • Lease Preparation We Invite Your Inquiries.....

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TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Xeriscaping helps create backyard interest using rocks, benches and containers without using a lot of water.

Drought-free design

Consider xeriscaping for a landscape with staying power Story by Gail Dillon Photographs courtesy of Ben Pamplin, Heart of Texas Landscape and Irrigation

hile drought conditions continue in Central Texas, finding affordable ways to beautify your lawn and garden is challenging. Xeriscaping, a form of landscaping that reduces or eliminates the need for extra water, just might be the solution to keeping the greenery without going broke paying exorbitant water bills. Jessica Robertson, biologist and owner of Backbone Valley Nursery in Marble Falls, said misconceptions abound when the term xeriscaping comes up. “A lot of people, when they think of xeriscaping, think of a cactus or a rock garden,” she said, pointing out that there is much more to the concept. Persistent drought conditions are the primary reason that xeriscaping is so ubiquitous lately. “It’s becoming more popular in Texas because of the water restrictions 48

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Xeriscaping requires little maintenance in the hot Central Texas climate.

... because of the drought that we’ve had,” Robertson said. Drought conditions began in October 2010 and reached a peak in 2011. A state impact report by NPR states that 2011

was the driest year ever for Texas, with an average of only 14.8 inches of rain. “By no means is the drought over,” Robertson said. “We got some relieving rains in 2014, Continued

Temple-Belton

Sue Lockett Owner

Ali Thompson

Terry Lockett Owner

254-771-3633

Carolyn Copeland

Chris Lockett

Frances Yerkes

George Felix

Hylie Mihatsch

Karey Poe

Margaret Pleasant

Mark Mahler

Michael Sikes

Quinton Locklin

Rachel Holman

Ray Rossi

Ronny Bourland

Ryan Smith

Outstanding Agents. Outstanding Results.速

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

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Xeriscaping with hardy Texas plants adds visual interest and “curb appeal” without using much water. Most xeriscaped lawns also require little maintenance.

but we are still nowhere back out of being considered in extreme drought,” she said. Xeriscaping encompasses a number of principles. “One is that it all leads to saving water, so planning and design is really big,” added Robertson. Other aspects of xeriscaping include thoughtful plant selection, using a frugal but efficient irrigation system and choosing to put in more practical turf areas. “People put in these beautiful landscapes and they ... spend all this money to put a fancy irrigation system in, then they can’t even use it,” she said. Grass selection is also an important consideration, because certain grasses require more water than others. “St. Augustine grass is the biggest water hog you can plant,” Robertson said. “It requires a lot of water to keep it looking pretty.” There are more practical, less expensive grass options actually native to Central Texas. “Bermuda, Zoysia and Buffalo are all good drought-tolerant grasses for this area,” said Robertson. Choosing native plants is an essential part of xeriscaping because they will eventually need less water. “Here at the nursery we’ve seen a huge trend toward more drought-tolerant plants,” she said. Robertson cautioned, however, that the plants need to establish their root systems first before their maintenance becomes minimal. “Until those roots grow 50

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

and spread ... at that point you can back off the water,” she said. She added that mulching will not only control weeds, but will also help retain plant moisture longer. Ben Pamplin, president of Heart of Texas Landscape and Irrigation in Belton, echoed Robertson’s opinion about xeriscaping stereotypes, saying rock gardens are often what people think of. Besides not being terribly attractive, he said rock gardens just radiate heat in the summer. Thankfully, this is by no means the only option when it comes to conserving water. “You can integrate decomposed granite beds and reduce the amount of sod in your yard,” Pamplin said, adding that native plants are an easy way to create a low-maintenance look that is easy on the eyes. “There are just a ton of different options to provide color with native plants,” he said. “Most of them are perennials — they die out in the winter and they come back every spring and do really well here.” Pamplin pointed to the Grand Avenue Theater in Belton as a good example of xeriscaping because it features drip irrigation under the sod, decomposed granite and perennial plants. “A lot of the municipalities are moving this way,” he said. Grass can still be part of a lawn, he said, but should be planted strategically, and ideally not underneath trees. “When you plant trees, don’t put sod underneath,” Pamplin said. “No matter what kind of

grass you have, it needs so many hours of sunlight.” In his own yard, he uses mulch and decomposed granite or river rock under the trees, then adds shade-tolerant flowers. Proper grouping of plants is also part of the xeriscaping philosophy. Pamplin said he often sees people putting the wrong plants next to each other. For example, Knockout Roses, which are hardy and drought-tolerant, shouldn’t be planted alongside plants that need a lot of water. “What happens is the roses end up getting fungus on them because they’re getting watered too much, and then they decline,” he said. Irrigation, not surprisingly, is crucial. “To have proper xeriscaping … if you have the opportunity, do it from the ground up,” Pamplin said. “If you have a landscape design, the irrigation design needs to coincide.” Some native plants and trees both Robertson and Pamplin recommend for Central Texas include desert willow, red yucca, Texas mountain laurel, salvia, lansier, and cedar shade. Pamplin also likes spineless cactus, which is needle-free. “You can still have a really nice xeriscaped yard that’s beautiful and accomplish all your goals without making it just a straight desert look,” he said. “If you’re a do-it-yourself kind of person, you can do that stuff on your own and you’ll have colorful plants that are attractive.”

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

An area rug anchors a larger room and ties together the decor, as seen in this photo courtesy of Cora Martinek.

ABOVE: Ceiling artwork is an inexpensive way to transform a room. AT RIGHT: Grouping collections of like items creates a focal point in a smaller space.

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

High-end looks for less Designer tips and trends for decorating on a budget

Story by Jessica Pearce Photographs by KARIN MARKERT

eautiful home decor comes in as many varieties as there are people. What separates good design from poorly executed design has everything to do with attention to detail, thrift and an artist’s eye. No one understands this better than Cora Martinek, owner and designer at Wedgwood Interiors, who has been in the interior design business since she was a child. “As a kid I was always moving stuff around; I had a Barbie townhouse that I’d decorate with Play-Doh, ribbons and pill boxes — I even made faux plants,” she said. What began as a childhood talent gradually became a gratifying career. Although Martinek experimented with different professions, including obtaining a geology degree, becoming a certified paralegal and then a medical practice manager, she always returned to her first love. “Design was always there,” she said. “I always had interior design projects going on while I was working other jobs.” She opened her own interior design business more than 20 years ago in Colorado, where she worked until moving to Harker Heights two years ago when her husband was offered a government service physician’s job on Fort Hood. Initially, she flew back and forth from Colorado to Texas, meeting with clients in her former state while working to decorate her beautiful new custom home overlooking Stillhouse Lake. Eventually, she completed her projects in Colorado and committed fully to embracing a new life in Central Texas. Continuing her career here, Martinek explained why she will never give up her passion for design. “I love creating things,” she said. “I love that I can help other people enhance their environment and feel happy. It creates a positive impact on them at home and at work.” “The craziest things inspire me,” she added. “Once I see something, it sticks in

Cora Martinek is the owner and designer at Wedgwood Interiors.

my mind.” As an example, Martinek referred to a beautifully decorated Chinese bowl that eventually gave rise to a unique bathroom design project featuring walls upholstered in llama skin and decorated with a Chinese dragon mural.

TRENDS Over the two years she has designed

in Central Texas, Martinek has observed decor trends emerge in the area while taking note of upcoming trends in the national market as well. “Because of the military, there is a mixture of different design ideas here since there are a lot of different cultures in the area,” she said. One consistent design trend she has seen is the prevalence of “statement Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

design,” which can be achieved through little touches, such as by adding distinctive light fixtures. “These fixtures look like art sculptures when they are turned off, and when they are on, they cast beautiful light and shadow patterns,” Martinek said. Other homeowners are creating strong statements throughout their homes through the use of strategically placed color. “People are using more saturated color,” Martinek said. For example, she explained that many are choosing to paint both interior and exterior doors strong colors, such as black, red or cobalt blue for impact. Others are painting their window trims black or a darker color so that the shape of their windows really stands out.

Budget design While many are distinguishing their homes through these trends, their aim remains the same — to create high-end, opulent looks without breaking their budget. Martinek specializes in designing on a budget, and offered a multitude of ideas on designing for less. “Mix less expensive pieces with high-end — that’s like my motto,” she said. She advises clients to shop at thrift stores, garage sales and on Craigslist to find inexpensive but classic furniture and accessories that can be spray-painted or utilized to coordinate with existing

Statement lighting and a unique china collection help define this dining room. 54

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

“I love creating things. I love that I can help other people enhance their environment and feel happy. It creates a positive impact on them at home and at work.”

— Cora Martinek

décor. She added that certain furniture can also be repurposed for different tasks. For instance, a dresser can pull double duty when it is used as a sideboard in a dining room, Martinek said. As another example, she suggested using a vintage side rail from a crib as a quilt or blanket holder. When buying new or used pieces is not an option, though, she recommends that clients take their existing furniture and rearrange it. By simply changing its placement, homeowners can get more mileage out of their current looks. “Paint, however, is the fastest and cheapest way to change a room,” she said. Clients can add visual interest by painting only one wall of a room with a bold pop of color, or by painting a pattern, such as stripes or a chevron design, on the wall. “I love painting ceilings,” said Martinek. “You can leave your walls neutral, and put all your color on the ceiling.” When it comes to designing for less, it is all about creating the illusion of something appearing more expensive than it is. Rather than purchase an expensive headboard, Martinek paints a headboard design directly onto the wall. Instead of ordering expensive monogrammed furniture, she purchases embroidered letters from a craft store and adds them to lamp shades for a personalized touch. “It looks very ‘designer,’ but it’s really inexpensive,” she said. Another technique Martinek uses when advising clients who are starting from scratch on a new room décor is to create a focal point in the room. For example, if a living room has a fireplace, the fire box itself can become a focal point. Because of Central Texas’ generally warm weather, which leaves most fireplaces in disuse, she opts to highlight a group of objects in the fire box such as “staggered pillar candles, a collection of pottery vases or a grouping of plants.” Similarly, a fireplace mantle can become a focal point by adding larger items of varying height. “If a room does not have a fireplace, another option for creating a focal point is to add a colorful area rug,” Martinek said. “A rug instantly adds color and texture; it can be the starting point when decorating a room. It creates impact and helps anchor voluminous rooms.” When decorating a smaller room, however, it may be more useful to coordinate accessories rather than create a larger focal point. Martinek recommends using accessories as a quick, easy way to update a room without spending a fortune. She does not believe that all accessories have to come from the same source or “set” to work, either. She has found that accessories “don’t have

Brightly painted walls are an inexpensive way to dress up a room.

to match, but complement each other.” This can be achieved by grouping items of like color scheme and shape together, or even by painting frames the same color so that they coordinate. She recommends using a neutral color palette as a base and letting the accessories add color to the room. Overstuffed throw pillows in bright fabrics, for example, can provide visual impact and even be changed out seasonally to give a room a new look. Her primary advice when it comes to accessories, though, is to keep a room “clutter free.” “Use fewer accessories, but choose ones that are larger in size,” she said. “This creates an overall feel of wealth and keeps a room from looking cheap.” Martinek also warned, “Don’t buy items just to fill empty spaces; only buy what you really like and love.” Martinek is in the process of writing a book about different ways to accessorize and decorate rooms. After only a few months, she has already written down over 300 ideas, with more coming. Advising clients with a keen eye and an imaginative mind, she said, “Decorating is all in the details.” TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexPets

Homes for feline friends crafted with care

Story by Jessica Pearce Photographs by JAMES PAUL STANLEY

rom the corner of your eye, a furry head pops out of a wooden hutch. Gazing out a back yard, there appear to be mini dwellings with peaked roofs cropping up all over the landscape. A tail swishes out of one of these Lilliputian lodges, a clue to its occupants. These occurrences are not isolated anomalies, but a growing trend among pet lovers. While their own homes come in all shapes and sizes, they have begun to provide their pets with unique dwelling places all their own. Kathy Kwieran and her husband Richard, owners of Kathy’s Kitties, a low-cost spay and neuter clinic and shelter for cats in downtown Killeen, have several cat homes scattered over their own private acreage, dotting the land like a miniature village. While necessity alone is often the mother of invention, Kathy and Richard have proven that compassion plus necessity equals innovation. Although their clinic’s aim is to help control the feral cat population and to find homes for tame cats, they have discovered a unique solution for housing both feral and domestic cats. “I saw a picture in a magazine for a ‘cat condo’ that cost over $2,000,” said Richard. “I looked at it, and was able to make the same thing for around $875.” Richard’s “cat condos” are a multistory affair designed to house up to 10 cats at a time. The condos look like a large, glass-front china hutch on wheels. Inside are several levels that can be accessed by different holes for cats to climb through to reach food, water and cat “hammocks.” The bottom level holds several litter boxes, while the top level features ventilation made out of plastic egg crates. The entire frame is made of birch plywood and 1x4 planks stained a cozy forest green to complement an outdoor setting or work well in a comfortable home. Richard explained that the cat condos work equally well as feral cat shelters or for indoor cats that like their own space. Richard has also made two other cat 56

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

The “A-Frame” cat dwelling has three compartments for cats to rest in with a feeding station underneath.

homes of varying sizes. He saw the picture for his A-frame-style cat home online, and knew he could duplicate it as well. His A-frames look like giant 5-foot traditional bird houses with outside holes for the cats to climb in and keep warm while cuddled in insulated cat beds. The bottom level features a covered feeding station for cats that just want a quick bite. The A-frames, made of plywood and “picket fencing,” hold up to six cats at a time, and can be kept indoors or outdoors. “I ask owners if they will be keeping their A-frame under cover or out in the open; if they’re in the open, I add tar paper to the

roof to keep it all dry,” Richard said. His easiest and most cost-effective cat home, though, is the “cat villa” he saw in another magazine and developed his own pattern for. The villa features two openings, one in the front and one in the back, giving any cat an “escape route” from predators while providing them shelter. Richard has added foam insulation to retain the cat’s body heat and keep it warm. The entire roof opens on a set of hinges so that owners can easily clean out the villa, lay down fresh bedding, or add food and water. Primarily designed as a shelter for feral cats, the villas also make a great out-

The “Cat Condo” has five levels from the ground up that cats can transverse. It also has glass doors to close it off when not in use.

Richard Kwieran hangs out with the cats that are enjoying his crafted cat villa at Kathy’s Kitties in Killeen.

door home for domestic cats to use as a backyard abode. Richard shares his wife Kathy’s love of cats. “When I met Kathy I already had a cat,” he said. “My current cat, Thunder, is from a shelter. He had a broken leg that wasn’t set properly, so we had it amputated. Even with only three legs, though, I can whistle and he’ll come!” Meeting Kathy herself, it is easy to sense the empathy she holds for her feline friends. While cats weave around benches, climb on counters and play with cat toys, she generously pets one and scoops another long-haired grey-and-white cat named “Little Mama” onto her lap. “We have 15 cats at home,” she said, “two one-eyed cats, three 3-legged cats, one ‘curly-legged’ cat, and the rest are all seniors. We also take care of 60 feral cats on our property.” Kathy is concerned about the lack of care that many cats receive, often resulting in overpopulation and disease. “I volun-

teered for an animal control shelter that had a 97 percent kill rate for cats — I just couldn’t take that,” she said. She chose to channel her tender-heartedness into creating the nearly all-volunteer-run cat clinic, which is funded wholly by donations. “I’m just an animal lover,” she said. “When cats sit in your lap and purr, it’s soothing. When I’ve had depression or been sick, they’ve comforted me. They’ve helped me, and I want to help them.” Richard said his proliferation of cat homes was the result of demand. “We’ve got quite a few cats at our house,” he said. “I started out making these cat homes, and now everyone is asking for them.” Kathy added that she, Richard and her team of volunteers at Kathy’s Kitties will teach anyone how to make a cat sanctuary for their pets or to set up cat shelters to care for homeless cats. Simplifying the matter, Richard said, “Just put the food down, and they will come.”

Kathy Kwieran, owner of Kathy’s Kitties in Killeen, provides low cost spay and neuter services for cats. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Darla Menking is busy at work in the front garden of her home in Harker Heights.

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

TexFit

Digging in the dirt promotes mind and body health Story by Gail Dillon Photographs by MITCHEL BARRETT

Darla Menking’s garden attracts butterflies, as seen in this photo she provided.

arla Menking believes that we all have a green thumb, whether we realize it or not. “The first human beings lived in a garden, and their job was to tend that garden, so to me, every person has within them a gardener’s personality,” she said. “If you think about it, all people used to garden and farm because they didn’t have all the big box stores.” Tending to plants and flowers feeds Menking both internally and externally and has become her most consistent daily workout. “The good thing about gardening is, you’re exercising, but you don’t really realize you’re exercising because you’re focusing on something else, but your body is moving,” she said. Menking, who is both a master gardener and a master naturalist in Killeen, has been growing things for much of her life, though gardening truly became a fullblown passion when she and her activeduty Air Force husband and two children moved to San Antonio in 1999, and she obtained her “own little piece of dirt.” Menking is a strong advocate for using native Texas plants whenever possible. After hearing other gardeners complain that there was no native plant marker for the state of Texas, she designed and marketed one herself. Though gardening helps her de-stress and relax, Menking said that it’s easy to underestimate gardening’s other benefits. “When you’re working with plants, you do a lot of squatting, and you’re constantly using your arms when you’re pruning,” she said. Menking added that she simply feels better being outside communing with plants. In the five years since her retirement from teaching and working as a site director for “Communities in Schools,” she spends more time “digging in the dirt,” and loves it for its many physical and emotional benefits. “I think it’s just very healing and very serene,” she said. “It evens you out mentally, and plants to me are just God’s perfection.” Science seems to back her up on this. According to a study by professors from the

University of Texas and Texas A&M University, those who garden tend to be more optimistic about life than non-gardeners. Other frequently cited physical and mental benefits of gardening include a lower risk of osteoporosis and diabetes, improved cardiovascular health and better sleep. Growing research also suggests that simply looking at plants can help lower blood pressure. When she was younger, Menking said she was an athlete, playing tennis and golf among other sports, but being outside was always her priority. As evidence, she admits to not understanding why other people might complain about having to mow their lawns. “I love to mow — I mow about every four days in the summer,” she said. “I would rather be out there than cleaning the house any day.” Gardening may seem easy from a physical standpoint, but that can be deceptive. “It’s one of the most peaceful, relaxing things you can do,” Menking explained, “but sometimes I’m sore. You use muscles you don’t realize and the next day it’s like, oh yeah, I was pulling on something. So it’s very physical.” Menking is also a columnist; one of her columns, humorously titled “Gardening is Not for Sissies,” described how strenuous it can be. Although, “when you enjoy it, it doesn’t feel like work,” she said.

Menking said she probably puts in about seven or eight hours of gardening a week when the weather is nice, and still gets in some gardening throughout the winter months, clearing excess debris and preparing for spring planting. She pointed out another positive side effect of gardening: the social aspect. “I am rarely working outside when someone doesn’t start talking with me,” Menking said. “Some people don’t know who their neighbors are. You can even garden as a neighborhood by doing community gardening.” She would like to see more children introduced to gardening and has volunteered in a number of Central Texas schools, showing kids how to plant and cultivate greenery. “These children are growing up with hardly a clue about growing your own plants, how it works, you know, the chemistry of the soil — soil is a living thing,” she explained. Although the physical aspects of gardening are important, Menking also treasures the deeper, quieter gifts her beloved hobby provides. “Being outside is just a great way to get perspective,” she said, “to see that there are other things around that are important and need to be taken care of.” TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexAdventures

A living legacy

History comes to life at Texas Botanical Gardens Story and photographs by Fred Afflerbach

efore barbed wire, railroads and highways carved up Central Texas, prior to the overgrazing practices that diminished native plants and opened the path for invasive species to proliferate, back when native grasses blanketed the hills and valleys — an indigenous people thrived by living lightly on the land. A living model of this pristine landscape has sprouted from the imagination and 10 years’ hard work of a small Central Texas community. The Texas Botanical Gardens in downtown Goldthwaite, a community of 1,900 in Mills County, celebrates the natural world and the history and culture of the hunter-gatherers who once roamed the banks of the Colorado River thousands of years ago. Texas Botanical Gardens opened to the public last fall. For a modest fee, you can explore alone, or follow a tour guide as he points out native grasses, shrubs and trees, and explains how prehistoric people used the plants for food and shelter. A brook lined with native sandstone trickles near an amphitheater built for seminars and school children to climb on. A replica wickiup perched on a berm covered with buffalo grass brings to life how these early Americans kept warm and dry. Wayside panels with colorful illustrations explain how to grind nuts and seeds into sustenance and cook tubers in underground ovens called middens. The gardens are just the first phase of a complex called Legacy Plaza, which covers an entire city block. Legacy Plaza is the brainchild of retired elementary and special education teacher Jan Fischer. Back in 2004, engineers said it was impossible to restore the abandoned, 100-year-old Say60

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Architects designed the Texas Botanical Gardens to be an interactive experience in which children are welcome to run and play. Anderson Lee and sister Addie jump and hike across buffalo grass. The frame to a wickiup behind them depicts how early Native Americans built shelters from tree branches and grasses.

lor Hotel, so she called in a wrecking crew and had the concrete building hauled away in pieces. Fischer then assembled a board of directors and, working with volunteers and city, county and state agencies, led the community in transforming a forlorn, downtown city block into a destination that already draws visitors from across the state. Like taking an overgrazed pasture and bringing it back to life, an eyesore slowly grew into a garden spot the community now shares with great pride. The adjacent Texas Department of Transportation Welcome Center complements the gardens with a friendly place to relax. The butterfly roof funnels rain water into a 40,000-gallon underground cistern. Water is pumped above ground and used to irrigate plants and replenish the brook

during dry weather. An open-air pavilion and museum to be built within the next few years will be home to the Native American Interpretive Center. When it is finished, local volunteers say it will be a destination unlike any in the area. “We decided we could fill a void and showcase the history of this area ... because these first people were really good stewards of the land,” Fischer said. The gardens depict what it was like to inhabit the western edge of the county long before covered wagons rolled into the region. “The plants are plants that were here a couple thousand years ago, utilized by the first people who walked across Texas — the hunters and gatherers,” Fischer said. “We Continued

A guide takes a group on a tour of the Texas Botanical Gardens in Goldthwaite in this courtesy photo from Brian DeGraffenried.

ABOVE: Addie reads a panel to her brother Anderson that explains flintknapping, the Native American practice of crafting tools and weapons from chert. AT LEFT: Legacy Plaza, seen in this courtesy photo from Brian DeGraffenried, is a part of the gardens in Goldthwaite. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Legacy Plaza is the brainchild of retired elementary and special education teacher Jan Fischer. The gardens attract hundreds of visitors each year. (Photo courtesy of Brian DeGraffenried)

wanted this to represent a real place and time with everything in it correct. Almost every plant in there in some way, shape, or form has been utilized by Native American culture.” The Texas Botanical Gardens celebrated its grand opening in October with a visit from former first lady Laura Bush, founder of Taking Care of Texas, a nonprofit that promotes the “mutual benefits of economics and conservation.” The $750,000 project was financed with private donations. Landscape designer Tab Ledbetter and his workers stacked 27 tractor-trailer loads of local moss boulders to build steps, walkways and a small canyon similar to one you can find near the Colorado River. Ledbetter said the board of directors has worked closely with the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian and is pursuing an affiliate relationship. Standing among native plum and persimmon trees, thorny agarita bushes, and the Texas state grass — sideoats grama — Ledbetter points out this landscape is a microcosm of what we would find if we lived in the region 1,000 years ago. “It’s not your typical city park where workers mow, cast fertilizer, water, and mow again,” Ledbetter said. “We’re going to let nature run its course.” As Texas continues to shift toward a more urban state, Legacy Plaza is dedicated 62

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

IF YOU GO

Goldthwaite is about a 90-minute drive from the Killeen-Temple metropolitan area. Travel west on US 190 to Lampasas, then north on US 183 for 37 miles to Goldthwaite. Legacy Plaza is on the left, a few blocks past the Mills County Courthouse.

to opening the eyes and ears of people who have had little interaction with rural landscapes. ”The whole purpose of Legacy Plaza and the original idea is to educate people on things that aren’t taught in school books,” Ledbetter said. “We’re trying to teach people about the first people who lived in Texas — the hunter-gatherers. They are pre-tribal Indians, so they are not known by Comanche or Cherokee names. These panels tell about how people survived on the land, about their food sources, medicines, tools, weapons and shelters that they lived in. This is to kind of give you a brief history.” Legacy Plaza was also built with children in mind. It is a hands-on facility where students can grind seeds into flour, or sit cross-legged in a wickiup and pretend they were born centuries before the Internet,

airplanes and automobiles. A playground with boulders and trees invites youngsters to climb and explore this piece of country in the city. “That’s exactly what kids these days need,” said Hazel McCoy, a longtime rancher and Mills County resident who sits on the board of directors. “I’m very pleased that it is not the bright plastic that you would find at McDonald’s,” McCoy said, referring to the playground. “There are trees that the kids can climb, and sand piles that they can play in — maybe find a dinosaur egg, or who knows what. There are too many children these days who do not have the opportunity to get out into the country and to see what really goes on.” Legacy Plaza has also opened Mills County to eco-tourism. Visitors can work with the Legacy Plaza folks and gain access to area ranches with undisturbed archeological sites where they can camp out, cook out, and mix with landowners, archeologists, ornithologists and astronomers. “It’s amazing the number of children — and adults too — who have no idea of the history of this part of the state,” McCoy said. “This certainly is an opportunity to further that education and make it interesting as well as informative, which is the best way to catch people’s ideas.”

Tex Appeal Magazine is looking for photographers and freelance writers with at least one year experience photographing and/or writing features for a newspaper or magazine. We are seeking candidates from the Central Texas area to include the cities of Killeen, Temple, Belton, Salado, Copperas Cove and Harker Heights. Candidates must be detail and deadline-oriented and good storytellers, and must be familiar with AP style. Ability for writers to take photos is a plus, but not required.

Interested candidates may send their resumes and three recent clippings and/or photographs for consideration to Catherine Hosman at edittexappealmagazine@gmail.com.

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

ADVERTISERS INDEX Ables Top Hat Chimney Sweeps...............................................................................44 Adorn Refined Living & Decor................................................................................ 11 Air Control................................................................................................................63 Arnold Builders, Adorn Refined Living & Decor....................................................46 Atmos Energy.............................................................................................................19 Bello Photography......................................................................................................27 Best Wishes Gifts.......................................................................................................15 Blind & Shutter Gallery............................................................................................15 Brick City Martial 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Inc...................................................................30 Metroplex Hospital......................................................................................................3 Montessori Schools of Central Texas........................................................................ 67 My Giving Tree.......................................................................................................... 51 Painting with a Twist.................................................................................................49 Rabroker Fence Company.........................................................................................42 ReMax/Temple-Belton..............................................................................................49 Scottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lawn Care Central Texas...............................................................................49 Shoppes on Main in Salado....................................................................................... 17 Solar Centex................................................................................................................7 Sonic Drive-in............................................................................................................29 Stellar Homes.............................................................................................................43 Stillwater Custom Homes..........................................................................................44 Surface Source.............................................................................................................7 SWBC Mortgage........................................................................................................46 Temple Area Builders................................................................................................20 Texas Bariatric Specialists..........................................................................................55 Texas Farm Bureau.................................................................................................... 51 The Gin at Nolan Creek Steakhouse..........................................................................7 The Grout Doctor.....................................................................................................63 Union State Bank......................................................................................................12 Wayne Benson, M.D. P.A. Clinic................................................................................2 Westside Baptist Church...........................................................................................30 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. 64

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

TexTherapy

“Go often to the house of a friend; for weeds soon choke up the unused path.” — Scandinavian Proverb

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

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