Tex Appeal | April & May 2024

BACKYARD BLISS

FROM POOLS TO PUTTING GREENS, PLANTS TO KITCHENS, HOMEOWNERS EMBRACE OUTDOOR LIVING

WHAT’S HOT IN HOME TRENDS

PITMASTERS SMOKE THE COMPETITION

ORGANIC GREENS GROWN IN BELL CO.

SAFE VIEWING FOR SOLAR ECLIPSE

MOTHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE IN THE SPOTLIGHT: TEMPLE AREA BUILDERS

PARADE OF HOMES

ON THE COVER

NEIGHBORS

Pearl’s

OUTREACH

Eldred’s Nursery

SCENE

Day For Women

SCENE

My Furry Valentine

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Temple Parade of Homes FLAVOURS

Maria's Place

SPIRITS

O'Briens Irish Pub

SCENE

Spirit at Corks & Barrels

MIXOLOGY

A Taste of Tequila

SCENE

Texas PizzaFest

THE REVIEW

Three epic fantasy series

TEEN REVIEW

Once Upon a Broken Heart

GIFT GUIDE

Shop for Mother’s Day

CENTEX ARTS

Artist Tiffany Elaine

A LOOK INSIDE

Firm Foundations

THIS GIRL’S GARDEN

Bell Co. Master Gardeners

FACES OF BUSINESS

IN CENTRAL TEXAS

CENTEX ED

Technology resources

CENTEX PAST

TB Harris School

50

What’s Hot in Home Design

Current trends include home gyms, and safety rooms

56 The Pitmasters

Temple High School team eyes national barbecue contest

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Backyard Bliss

Outdoor living spaces include kitchens, putting greens, pools and drought-tolerant plants

69 Gateway to the South

Revol Greens expands with 20-acre greenhouse near Temple

72

Sweet and Tasty

Peech Line Products makes food-inspired candles that look good enough to eat

74

Great American Eclipse

Central Texas communities

brace for crowds as April 8 solar event nears

Home gyms are a popular feature in Central Texas, Terri Carter says. | 50 Photo by SKEEBO

It’s springtime! Bluebonnets are finally blooming and the threat of cold weather is (hopefully) over. This is one of the best times of the year, especially in Texas — not too cold, not too hot and the bugs aren’t trying to kill everyone yet.

Probably because of its mild climate, spring is the perfect time for barbecues, spring cleaning, gardening and home repairs, which is the prime focus of this special Home & Garden issue of Tex Appeal.

Inside this issue, David Stone interviewed experts and home owners to share what’s hot in home design. Read all about home gyms, safe rooms and more on page 50.

BRANDY CRUZ editor@ texappealmag.com facebook.com/ texappealmagazine

Most homeowners probably dream of having the backyard of their dreams, which is the focus of our cover this issue. The perfect backyard design is different for everyone, find out a few of the most popular designs featured on page 60.

Did you know Central Texas is home to its own hydroponics farm? Revol Greens produces 42,000 pounds of lettuce daily, and is sold in local stores. The 20-acre facility is featured on page 69.

Temple High School has its very own barbecue team, The Pitmasters, who earned second place in the National High School BBQ Association’s National Championship last year. Read all about how they are preparing to compete again this year on page 56.

If you’ve ever been interested in turning your brown thumb green, you should check out Amy Rognlie’s story about Eldred’s Nursery on page 12. The facility teaches people what they need to grow plants native to Central Texas.

Amy also interviewed the folks with the Bell County Master Gardeners, page 48, about the classes they offer at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office.

Our very own Phoenix Carlisle was named the top speaker during the District 22-5A High School Academic Meet in the Barbara Jordan UIL Essay competition. The focus of the essay was about the T.B. Harris School, the first African American school in the area, which is now Belton’s Harris Community Center. Read Phoenix’s essay on page 80.

Rachel Strickland visited Copperas Cove to serve up all the details about Maria's Place, page 20, where they make from-scratch meals to satisfy any appetite.

O'Briens Irish Pub is ready to transport you straight to the Emerald Isle, without ever leaving Central Texas. The brother-owned business, featured on page 22, features more than 40 beers on tap, along with a fully stocked bar.

We’re excited to bring you this great issue. Please share your thoughts, including your favorite stories, by emailing the editor at editor@texappealmag.com. If you have any subjects you believe would make for an interesting feature, please let us know.

Advertising: 254-778-4444 or 254-501-7500. Editorial: Contact Brandy Cruz at editor@texappealmag.com

Tex Appeal editor

PATRICIA BENOIT is a longtime journalist who writes the history-based "Back Roads" column appearing every Monday in the Temple Daily Telegram and the Killeen Daily Herald She is the author of 15 books on Central Texas history and 40 monographs which were used as documentation for Texas Historical Commission markers. Recipient of numerous awards for her research and writing, she received the Texas Historical Commission’s award for outstanding media achievement for “Back Roads.”

LISA CARLISLE is Tex Appeal and the Temple Daily Telegram’s advertising director. Lisa is a wife and mother of five — two girls and three boys, together they enjoy exploring locally and you can always find them outdoors or in the water. She is a native Austinite and has lived in Temple since 2018. She also is a member of the Betty Martin DAR chapter. Her hobbies include photography, genealogy, cooking, family time and festivals.

PHOENIX CARLISLE is an obsessive book lover, who can’t get her hands on enough books. A high school honor student, Phoenix wants to be a criminal lawyer, and she hopes that she can travel to all the places she dreams of. For now, she helps her parents handle four younger siblings as she continues to read and write.

SKEEBO REICHERT has over 25 years experience as a professional photographer and has expanded his services to include filmmaking. The Temple High School graduate has a BFA in photography and sculpture. He lives in Temple with his wife and two sons. PhotoBySkeebo.com

AMY ROGNLIE is an author and middleschool teacher. Her newest series of cozy mystery novels, The Short Creek Mysteries, are set in Bell County. Amy’s articles have been published in national magazines and websites. She blogs on encouragement, hope and faith on AmyRognlie.com. Amy and her family reside in Little River-Academy.

CONTRIBUTORS

BECKY STINEHOUR is a portrait, commercial and event photographer, specializing in live music venues. Her work has been published in several regional magazines. She is a Killeen High School graduate who loves to highlight her hometown connections through the lens of her camera. Find her on Instagram at ciphoto.

DAVID STONE is a lifelong journalist with more than 40 years of experience. His grandfather was a journalist, and so was his great-grandfather. He decided he had enough of murder and mayhem as a news writer and wanted to write something upbeat and inspirational, so he now owns and writes for Our Town Temple as well as for Tex Appeal Magazine.

RACHEL STRICKLAND is a university writing tutor and freelance writer. She earned a Master of Arts in English from Texas A&M UniversityCentral Texas in 2021. She has a passion for anything related to language and writing, and her words have been published in various blogs, newspapers and literary journals. In her free time, she enjoys reading, crocheting, and listening to true crime podcasts — always with her cat on her lap.

JOHNA UNDERWOOD lives in Temple and teaches English at Gatesville High School, working with her husband, Joe, who is the assistant principal. Both she and Joe are passionate, professional educators who want the best for their students and community. The Underwoods are University of Mary HardinBaylor graduates.

TONYA WARREN has been a registered nurse for 33 years with Ascension Providence Healthcare in Waco and a lifestyles writer for a few years. She lives in Waco and enjoys reading, writing and taking her grouchy German Shepherd on walks.

JANNA ZEPP is a native Texan. Her career in mass communication includes writing for film, TV, radio, and print media. She spent four years writing for the Fort Hood Sentinel and two years as a III Corps Public Affairs television producer, anchor and writer for Fort Hood On Track and three years as the editor of Tex Appeal.

JOIN OUR TEAM

Tex Appeal is always looking for photographers and freelance writers from Central Texas. Send a resume and three to five recent published samples for consideration to editor@texappealmag.com.

Home at Pearl's Place

WOMAN STRIVES TO SAVE LIVES OF MAN’S BEST FRIEND

BY AMY ROGNLIE | Photos courtesy of LISA KATHAN

Lisa Kathan has been rescuing animals all her life. She began rescuing horses as a teenager and has since moved on to rescuing medically vulnerable dogs. In 2013, Kathan founded Pearl’s Place in Temple.

“Our mission is to help dogs in worst-case scenarios from shelters or in cases of abandonment. Many of the shelter dogs are in line for euthanasia, maybe having gunshot wounds, burns, broken bones, or having been hit by a car and are flagged as ‘urgent.’ These overlooked and sometimes forgotten animals are our priority and we are extremely grateful to be a part of their healing and future,” Kathan said.

Take Diddy, for example, an American pit bull terrier who came to Pearl’s Place two years ago on hospice. Someone had fed him roofing nails, and he was not expected to live. With the loving care of Kathan and her volunteer staff, Diddy not only survived, but recently celebrated his 14th birthday along with 14 other senior dogs who are permanent residents at Pearl’s Place.

In 2022 and 2023, Pearl’s Place rescued more than 350 dogs. A dog groomer and aesthetician for 30 years, Kathan uses specialized products and medical-

grade equipment, including a hydromassage ozone machine, to nurse the dogs back to health. The hydromassage treatment helps with inflammation, skin issues and even helps shrink cancer tumors.

“No matter what it costs, I’m going to get these dogs the care they need,” Kathan said. “We pride ourselves on the recovery of some of the worst medical cases, from skin to broken bones, we do them all.”

She and the Pearl’s Place staff are the main caregivers for the animals, but since they do not yet have a veterinarian on staff, medical bills are astronomical. In 2022 and 2023 alone, the small rescue organization spent $124,000 in vet bills and more than $50,000 in dog food.

Kathan and her crew also hope to help educate the public about the importance of having dogs spayed or neutered, as there is an overwhelmingly large population of unwanted dogs in Bell County. She said she dreams of one day opening a low-cost spay/neuter clinic in Temple and already has some of the equipment, but is waiting on more funding to be available to realize her dream. Plans also include

having a vet on staff. In the meantime, Pearl’s Place offers low-cost vaccination and microchipping clinics once a month at its location in southeast Temple. There’s also a small supply of dog food to help those who are in need.

She hopes that more people will become involved and says that even small gestures help. The hardest part of her job is finding new homes for the dogs once they are restored to health, so something as simple as passing along a social media post of a dog looking for a home is important. She also encourages folks to donate dog food to their local animal shelter or to sponsor a spay or neuter for someone who cannot afford it. Monetary donations are greatly appreciated by this small team of canine caregivers and will go toward seeing their big dreams realized.

“We want to make a real impact on the community,” Kathan said. “We want to do as much as we can.”

PEARL’S PLACE

Address: 4011 Little Drive Road, Temple

Phone: 254-654-8307

TikTok: Pearlsplace2020

Instagram: @thecrazydawgladytx

Facebook: facebook.com/pearlsplaceusa

Lisa Kathan and the staff at Pearl’s Place in Temple give sick and unwanted dogs a safe place to recover.

Eldred's Nursery

GIVES DISABLED ADULTS A PLACE TO LEARN, GROW

By AMY ROGNLIE | Photos courtesy of MARGARET CHADWICK

“

The nursery is not really the focus. The people are,” said Margaret Chadwick, Eldred’s Nursery founder and board president.

Teaching Bell County communities about both compassion and native plants, Eldred’s Nursery in Belton is not your average garden center. Besides being the only nursery in the area to focus on plants that are native or adaptive to Central Texas, the nonprofit nursery provides a job training facility for persons with special needs in Bell County, and also allows community-based opportunities such as communication, social skill development, and interpersonal relationship development with customers and other trainees.

As the former director of the 18+ program at Belton High School, Chadwick realized firsthand the need for resources for disabled young people.

“I was constantly talking to parents of disabled students who were wondering what to do once their child aged out of school at 22 years old, but there were no training centers (or) job placements sites in Bell County in 2017, so we decided to do something about it,” Chadwick said. “After a lot of thought and prayer, we bought our building and just jumped off the cliff.”

The nursery program started in 2017 with six shade domes for the plants and an existing building that had no bathroom facilities and needed improvements and repairs. Since then, with the help of an anonymous donor and many volunteers, Eldred’s Nursery has expanded into an adjoining property, gaining more land and an existing home. The newly renovated home, Evan’s Place, houses the “day-hab” portion of the program. Young people attend this program from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., five days a week where they work on social and intellectual skills by doing crafts, playing games and completing chores such as dusting, doing dishes and cleaning. Attendees also learn skills such as doing laundry or making beds, which could allow them to live independently at some point.

On the nursery side of the property, the “trainees” work to build their employment skills, beginning with learning the importance of punctuality and regular attendance. As with the day-hab students, each nursery trainee has goals and objectives that are monitored daily and/or weekly and are updated

monthly or quarterly. Those goals and objectives are part of the training program but also include written documentation which is also communicated to parents or caregivers.

As trainees pot plants, shovel dirt and plant seeds, they are also interacting with each other and nursery customers, learning such important skills as making eye contact with others, how to behave on a break, or practicing using both sides of their bodies. So far, at least 27 trainees have been placed at a job in the community.

Chadwick and her team at Eldred’s Nursery strive to make their program accessible to all who need it. All areas have been designed and tested with the American Disability Act in mind to make sure everything is wheelchair accessible. In addition, the cost to families is kept at a bare minimum and can sometimes be covered by state or federal funding sources. As a nonprofit, the nursery program’s costs are slightly offset by selling plants, trees and bushes and by doing fundraisers, but expenses are far beyond what comes in via those avenues. Private donors and many volunteers keep the program going.

“Our program is an opportunity for individuals to gain experience and self-esteem, and for others to see how much individuals with disabilities can contribute to our community,” Chadwick said.

The organization works closely with the nursery works closely with Heart of Central Texas Independent Living, Texas Workforce and Central Counties Services to ensure that individuals and families are receiving the services they need. They also ally with other nonprofits such Centex Champs, a baseball/softball league for children, youth and adults; and Bell County Grownups, an organization that plans events for adults with special needs to socialize with each other and members of the community.

“This whole thing is not about us,” Chadwick said. “It’s about making sure that there is a full life for people with disabilities in our community.”

ELDRED’S NURSERY

Address: 1220B Main St., Belton (behind Bourland’s)

Phone: 254-831-3006

Website: enfound.org

Facebook: facebook.com/eldredsnurseryfoundation

2 3 4

1. The Temple Daily Telegram and Tex Appeal’s 20th annual Day for Women panel discussion on Jan. 27 featured Paula Kay Hubbard, Christine Parks, Brynn Myers, Tresa McNeal and Dr. Zoe Grant.

2. Models gather on the stage following the fashion show, as Ray Ceniceros introduces them.

3. Natasha Gilmore, Margie Gilmore, and Denise Guerra pause and smile as they shop at the Day for Women.

4. Participants listen to the panel discussion. Photos by BECKY STINEHOUR

SCENE: MY FURRY VALENTINE PET ADOPTION

2 3 4

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1. Valeria Sotomayor holds Oli as Joshua Sanchez, Lidmary Gutierrez, and Santiago Sanchez stay warm during Barrow Brewing's My Furry Valentine event.

2. Vaughn Alexander holds Tidbit, a previously rescued pet.

3. Sherry Claytor gives her dog a kiss.

4. John Snow pauses to pet Tasi as they take a walk in Salado.

5. Cheyanne O'Neil and Daniel Welch smile as they play with Tank.

Photos by BECKY STINEHOUR

The American Dream comes alive

Central Texans can experience their dream come true in one of the homes during the Temple Area Builders Association 2024 Parade of Homes™.

Central National Bank is the Title Partner of this year’s Parade™. Additional Parade Partners include Kiella Homebuilders, Tri-Supply, Keene Roofing, Texas Bright Ideas, Suncoast Post Tension, and Temple Daily Telegram.

In the words of Megan Kiella, President of the association, “the Temple area is emerging as a vibrant real estate hub amidst escalating demand for homes in the local market and the growth our area is seeing with its central location and close proximity to large cities like Ausin & Dallas. The parade presents an unparalleled opportunity to view the remarkable accomplishments of our skilled builders, unveiling a diverse selection of homes and neighborhoods that epitomize luxury and comfort.”

This year’s Parade™ will feature homes in Temple, Belton, Morgans Point Resort, Nolanville, Salado, Troy, Moody, Rogers, and Holland. A variety of both custom and spec homes that will be featured in this year’s Parade™ range in price from $290,000 to over $2,000,000.

The Parade is a highly anticipated event where participating builders go beyond the ordinary to showcase their exceptional layouts, designs, and decorations. They put in extra effort to create a unique “I’m home” feel in some of the featured homes.

At the Parade, you’ll discover the newest trends and designs, making it a “must-attend” event for anyone interested in outdoor living spaces, open floor plans, energy efficiency, and the latest custom items available. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your dream home or simply want to enjoy a delightful tour, the Parade offers a plethora of ideas to share with your family, friends, and colleagues.

You can explore the homes and gather ideas for remodeling or decorating, and TABA Builder and Associate members are always available to help you turn those ideas into a reality. So don’t miss the chance to experience the Parade and explore the exceptional designs and trends that await you.

“We are thrilled to announce that we have 32 entries in this year’s Parade of Homes™ of varying price points, so it’s a great showcase of our builder members capabilities and creativity. We can’t wait for you to join us. You’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful homes in Bell County, each with its own unique style and design, presented by some of the best local builders. So, come along and discover your dream home. We look forward to seeing you there!”–Brad Wyrick, 2024 Parade of Homes Chair

This year’s Parade of Homes™ will feature several Builders showcasing some of their best work. All Parade homes will be open to the public on two weekends again this year: from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April 12th; from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 13th and April 14th; and the following weekend from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April 19th; and from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 20th and April 21st. Admission is $10 per adult and children under 12 are admitted free. Tickets are available at each of the Parade homes during open hours of the event.

A special Parade of Homes™ magazine is produced by the Temple Daily Telegram each year. The magazine will be distributed in the Friday, April 12th edition of the newspaper and will showcase each home in the Parade™. In addition to a photo, floorplan and other information, the magazine will also include a map that will guide you to each of the homes on tour.

For more information, please visit www.tahb. org/parade or download and find us on the FREE Parade Smart Application on your smartphone.

Come experience the dream at the 2024 Temple Area Home Builders Parade of Homes™!

“We are excited to continue our 20+ year tradition as the title sponsor for the Temple Area Home Builders parade of homes. CNB takes pride in supporting our local builders. We hope everyone enjoys visiting the homes.” Stacie Bratton, Senior Vice President, Mortgage & Construction Lending

Omega Builders

North Point

2838 Wasilla Drive, Temple

Omega Builders

Warrior’s Legacy

2044 Stillwell Street, Nolanville

DB Fuller Homes

Warriors Legacy Phase II 2054 Mercer Street, Nolanville

Cory Herring Homes

County View Additions 3008 Atascosa Drive, Temple

Denali Construction

Atascosa Estate 927 Antelope Trail, Temple

A&G Homes

Turtle Creek 707 Willow Drive, Troy

DR Horton

Sterling Meadows 14816 Armstrong Loop, Salado

Orchard Valley Homes

Denmans Twin Mountain 2nd 5178 Denmans Loop, Belton

Carothers Executive Homes

Eagle Heights 813 Eagle Heights Drive, Salado

Jarolik Homes

Deer Grove Estates 8150 Travertine Ln, Temple

Kiella Homebuilders

The Grove at Lakewood Ranch 10834 Campsite Cove, Temple

Tierra Homes

Deer Grove Estates 7804 Flat Rock Street, Moody

Denali Construction

Flintridge Estate 1478 Four Sixes Ranch Road, Salado

Flintrock Builders

The Landing at Heritage Oaks 7014 Troyan Lane, Temple

White River Homes Eagle Ranch 11174 Golden Eagle Ave, Salado

King Signature Homes

King Oaks

6763 Kingsmill Rd, Salado

Orchard Valley Homes

Sunset Acres

8144 Evenfall Lane, Temple

Jarolik Homes River Oaks Estates

Cory Herring Homes

Callie Christina Estates

12001 Callie Christina Court, Salado

Creekside Custom Homes

The Bluff at Dunns Hollow

2135 Oak Draw Court, Belton

Flintrock Builders

King Oaks

6612 King Oaks Blvd, Salado

Empire Custom Homes

Salado Mills

2516 Indian Mill, Salado

Southern Native Design + Build

Spring Creek Estates

8456 Spring Creek Loop, Salado

Carothers Executive Homes

Rancho Del Lago 325 Airosa, Morgans Point Resort

Brandon Whatley

Honey Glen Acres

214 Glenview Circle, Belton

Brandon Whatley

Honey Glen Acres

208 Glenview Circle, Belton

Creekside Custom Homes

High Ridge Ranch

14246 FM 2268, Holland

Sacred Home & Design

Salado Mills

2512 Indian Mill Rd, Salado

Eagle Ridge Builders

Hartrick Crossing

6218 Whippoorwill Road, Temple

Eagle Ridge Builders

Misty Creek

6928 Castlerock Drive, Temple

Platinum Homes

The Enclave at Lake Belton

10055 Blanco Springs, Moody

Platinum Homes

17 acre lot

9319 Pritchard Rd, Temple

Made From Scratch

MARIA’S PLACE DISHES UP COMFORT FOOD

By RACHEL STRICKLAND | Photos courtesy of MARIA’S PLACE

Copperas Cove is known for its friendly, smalltown atmosphere. Even though it has more than 37,000 residents, the city somehow maintains the feeling that everyone knows everyone. This is partially due to the locally owned businesses, such as Maria’s Place, a restaurant that focuses on comfort food made from scratch.

Previously known as Something in Between, Maria’s Place is a cozy restaurant in the Cove Terrace Shopping Center. It was founded by Copperas Cove-native Kyle Kinder, but due to changes in circumstances, he sold it to two loyal customers who didn’t want to let the place close. Maria and Tim Parrish, both retired veterans, bought the restaurant from Kinder in September.

“We used to come here and liked it, and we didn’t want it to go away,” Maria said.

She’s from Washington, D.C., and Tim is from Maryland, but they ended up in Central Texas through the military. From her time in the service, Maria acquired experience and knowledge in food service. She said her kids told her she should open a restaurant someday, and now that dream has become a reality.

The name change is slowly taking place, but the outside of the restaurant already boasts its new sign. Maria said that most of the menu will stay the same and everything will still be made from scratch. They also serve lunch and are in the process of serving dinner as well.

“What I’m thinking of doing is having a weekly special, which will change, depending on whatever’s in season and whatever I feel like making,” she added.

Everything on the menu at Maria’s Place is made from scratch. “We grind our own pork, we season our own sausage, and we make our own gravy,” she said. “We make our own bread, tortillas, biscuits and gravy. Everything is fresh and made here.”

They offer mouth-watering breakfast options such as chicken and waffles, French toast and a dish called the Big Tex, which is made of crispy potatoes, a boneless fried chicken thigh, sausage country gravy, and three scrambled eggs. As of right now, their lunch and dinner options include classic comfort foods such as a BLT, a fried chicken sandwich and chorizo tacos.

While finding a locally owned restaurant that makes everything from scratch is rare, Maria’s Place also has a uniquely heartwarming, community feel. They have games people can play while they’re waiting for their food and a children’s area for kids who get restless.

“We have a lot of people who just come in and hang out, visit, and enjoy each other’s company,” Maria said. “It’s a nice, relaxed place. It’s not uncommon for people to talk across the tables to each other. It’s like going home for dinner.”

MARIA’S PLACE

Address: 316 Cove Terrace Shopping Center, Copperas Cove

Phone: 254-577-5034

Website: sibcove.com

Facebook: facebook.com/sibcove

Hours: Wednesday-Monday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Closed on Tuesdays)

Irish Tradition in Temple O’BRIENS PROVIDES AUTHENTICITY AND CHARM

By LISA CARLISLE | Photos by SKEEBO

“

May your troubles be less, and your blessings be more. And nothing but happiness come through your door.” The traditional Irish toast rings true upon walking through the doors of O’Briens Irish Pub in Temple.

O’Briens stands firmly as an inspiration of tradition and community among the rapid expansion of the downtown district. Owned and operated by brothers Ryan and Cody Leshikar this charming establishment is not just a pub, but a labor of love that has transformed a century-old building into a haven for those seeking an unforgettable authentic Irish pub experience.

The story of O’Briens began with a vision to breathe new life into a piece of history.

“We had the chance to uncover the older architecture that had been hidden for years as styles changed and original elements were covered,” Cody said.

Together, the Leshikar brothers meticulously restored the 100-yearold building, infusing it with warmth through rich woodwork, including the

bar — a true masterpiece crafted by their own hands.

But the renovation was not a solo endeavor; the entire family as well as close friends rallied together, lending their support and expertise to bring the vision to life.

“Our mom and dad were a huge part of the renovation, pulling nails and getting their hands dirty with us,” Ryan said.

From the original hardwood flooring to adorning the walls with historic photos and unique art, every detail was a labor of love, imbuing the space with character and charm.

Beyond its physical beauty, O’Briens is a steadfast advocate of local live music, providing a platform for talented artists to fill the air with melodies that resonate deep within the soul.

Once inside, it feels like you’re transported to a different country, greeted by the sight of exposed brick

Cody Leshikar, Nikki Mayo and Ryan Leshikar inside O’Briens Irish Pub.

walls, weathered with age, and the inviting aroma of traditional Irish fare. As you take in the ambiance, you’ll find yourself surrounded by laughter, conversation and the clinking of glasses — a nod to the camaraderie that thrives within these walls.

“Sixteen years ago, there weren’t a lot of places offering too much,” Cody said. “We thought about where we would like to go. We liked the pub feel and there was nothing like that around.”

After five months of renovation, all while the brothers worked fulltime jobs, returning at night and on weekends to complete their dream, the doors were officially opened in 2007.

Of course, no visit to O’Briens would be complete without indulging in their impressive selection of libations. With over 40 beers on tap, including local microbrews and seasonal offerings, and an array of

bottled options to choose from, there’s something to satisfy every patron. Take advantage of their fully stocked bar for any cocktail craving, including a fine selection of Scotch, Irish and North American whiskey, vodka, tequila, absinthe, and a variety of wines. Whether you’re savoring a pint of Guinness or raising a glass of Jameson Irish Whiskey, each sip is a toast to the good times shared in good company.

And let’s not forget the culinary delights that are ready to warm the soul. From grandma’s shepherd’s pie to classic fish and chips and irresistible cheese curds, the menu is a celebration of Irish tradition and comfort food at its finest.

But O’Briens is more than just a place to eat and drink — it’s a home away from home where families are welcome with open arms.

“What I would like to see is a very unique culture,” Nikki Mayo, active board member of Our Hospice House, as well as the marketing head for O’Briens, said about her vision for the future of the pub. “They have the set up and the feel. They bring the essence of an authentic Irish Pub.”

O’Briens actively supports local charities, often spearheading fundraising efforts for others. The next fundraiser will be April 26 for Our Hospice House, encouraging all to support an organization

near to their hearts.

With space for private parties, catering services and the ability to host events such as weddings at external venues, the pub exudes a sense of warmth and inclusivity that makes everyone feel like part of the family.

“We want people to celebrate with us,” Mayo said. “Our regulars feel like they matter, it’s not just about serving them but about knowing them.”

Even in the face of adversity, O’Briens has remained a pillar of strength. When the challenges of COVID-19 threatened to dim its light, the pub emerged as a beacon of resilience.

“What do you do when the mindset changes?” Ryan asked, adding, “That was the challenge, and we are grateful for our loyal regulars, they may not come as much but they are still coming.”

Whether you’re a local looking for a familiar haunt or a visitor in search of a taste of Irish hospitality, O’Briens welcomes you with open arms and a hearty “sláinte!”

O’BRIENS IRISH PUB

Address: 11 E. Central Ave., Temple

Phone: 254-295-0518

Website: obrienstemple.com

Social: facebook.com/obriensirishpubtempletx

Bell County MuseumE.A. Limmer Jr.

Summer Camps

Summer Fun for Early Learners - July 9-12, 10-12pm

July

July

July

6 years and younger Cost - Free, come and go Daily Themes: Military Appreciation, Fun with Math!, Art is Everywhere!, Kitchen Chemistry

July

Junior Historians Summer Camp* - July 16-19, 2024

July

•Free

•Free

Ages 7-12 years ($60 for Junior Historians + STEAM Camp)

Daily themes : Texas Cultural Groups, Westward Expansion, the Industrial Revolution & Inventions, and Space Exploration & the history of NASA.

STEAM Summer Camp* - July 23-26, 2024

7-12 years old, drop off camp

Daily themes: Environmental Science, Problem Solving with Geometry, Engineering, and Coding & Robotics.

*Junior Historians and STEAM Summer Camps are $40 per week (discount offered for registration for both weeks) and are drop off camps.

Both weeks are limited to 30 kids. Payment is required within 7 days of registration. Registration opens May 1, 2024. Please register at bellcountymuseum.org/events

201 North Main Belton, TX 76513 • 254-933-5243 www.bellcountymuseum.org

Spirit

Wednesday

April 3rd

6:00 - 7:30 pm

Drink of the Night: James & Ginger

Jameson’s Irish Whiskey, Ginger Ale, and Lime 11 E Central Ave Temple, TX

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1. Thyme and Efforts was the signature drink for Spirit Night at Corks & Barrels on Feb. 7.

2. Timothy Giardino wins a prize during the event.

3. A view of Corks & Barrels spread in the February/March issue of Tex Appeal. Photos by LISA CARLISLE

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A Taste of Tequila MIX YOUR OWN COCKTAILS AT HOME

Story and photos by JANNA ZEPP

Most folks don’t think past margaritas and shooters when it comes to tequila and that does this amazing spirit no favors. Tequila, my friends, is a lady and should be treated as such. The beverage is far more elegant than given credit and comes with an impressive history. Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, let’s take a look at tequila and four great drink recipes worthy of celebration.

Centuries old, tequila comes from the blue agave plant. The Aztecs first used the agave plant to make a drink called pulque for use in religious ceremonies and made by fermenting the plant’s sap. After the Spanish colonizers showed up in Mexico in the 16th century, they began to make their own version of Aztec pulque called mezcal. The drink, first created in the town of Tequila, Jalisco, at a distillery built by the Marquis of Altamira, was made with the same blue agave sap, but distilled.

There are different types of tequila, each with their own flavor and character. The most wellknown types of tequila are blanco, reposado, and añejo.

Blanco or silver tequila comes from unaged agave. Clear in color and with a slightly sweet flavor, it is popular in cocktails, such as margaritas.

Reposado tequila must age for at least two months in oak barrels. Its mellow flavor makes it best used in mixed drinks.

Añejo tequila ages for at least one year in oak barrels. Its rich, smooth taste makes it a good choice for enjoying served neat or on the rocks.

Extra añejo tequila ages for at least three years in oak barrels. Smoother than regular añejo, it also makes a delicious drink alone or over ice.

The process of making tequila is as complicated as with any other distilled spirit and it is worth your time to learn about it. But for now, let’s look at four amazing ways to enjoy it in cocktails and mixed drinks.

TEQUILA SUNRISE

This classic 1970s cocktail has a history with both the Rolling Stones (Mick Jagger loves it) and the Eagles, hence the song, Tequila Sunrise which was released in 1973, the same year a popular tequila company put the recipe on the back labels of their bottles.

The Tequila Sunrise, though simple to make, requires exact attention to detail to arrive at the illusion of a sunrise in a glass. Take your time and practice often until you get it right.

Ingredients

2 oz. blanco tequila

4 oz. orange juice, freshly squeezed

¼ oz. grenadine

Garnish: orange slice

Garnish: cherry

Make it:Add the tequila and then the orange juice to a chilled highball glass filled with ice.

Top with the grenadine, which will sink to the bottom of the glass, creating a layered effect.

Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.

LA REINA

I created this cocktail based on one I tried at a Waco-area restaurant last January. I’ve modified it just a bit for my own delicate palate and named it La Reina (The Queen) because it, quite frankly, is my favorite and worthy of a crown among tequila cocktails.

Ingredients

2 oz. reposado tequila

½ oz. sweet vermouth

½ oz. dry vermouth

1 dash Angostura bitters

1 dash Campari bitters

Orange peel

Make it: In a mixing tin or cocktail shaker filled with ice, pour the tequila, sweet vermouth, and bitters.

Stir with a bar spoon until chilled (about 30 seconds).

Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Garnish with an orange peel.

PALOMA

This light, refreshing cocktail is an elegant alternative to a champagne mimosa at Sunday brunch. It calls for grapefruit and grapefruit juice, but if you can’t have grapefruit or its juice for whatever reason, you can try it with orange juice or another citrus juice of your choice.

Ingredients

Chile-lime spice mix

1 grapefruit wedge

2 oz. fresh grapefruit juice

½ oz. fresh lime juice

¼ oz. simple syrup or 1 tsp. granulated sugar

2 oz. mezcal or tequila

2 oz. club soda

Make it: Pour some Chile-lime spice mix on a small plate. Rub half the outer rim of a highball glass with 1 grapefruit wedge; roll moistened rim of the glass in the spice mix. Reserve wedge.

Combine 2 oz. fresh grapefruit juice, ½ oz. fresh lime juice, and ¼ oz. simple syrup or 1 tsp. granulated sugar in salt-rimmed glass; stir until combined and sugar (if using) is dissolved. Add 2 oz. mezcal or tequila and fill glass with ice; stir until chilled, 30 seconds. Top with 2 oz. club soda, stir gently to combine, and garnish with grapefruit wedge.

BERRY RANCH WATER

I’ve come to really enjoy ranch waters. Light and clean tasting, it’s a nice change from other tequila cocktails and mixed drinks. But I like a little more flavor in my refreshments, so I add dark and/or red berries and a lightly berry-flavored sparkling water to my tequila.

Ingredients

Ice

3 oz. blanco tequila (I prefer reposado, but you do you)

1 ½ oz. blueberry, blackberry, strawberry, or raspberry juice

Sparkling water with a matching berry-flavor

Make it: Fill a glass with ice.

Add about three ounces (two shots) of tequila and about an ounce and a half (a shot) of fresh berry juice.

Top with flavored sparkling water. Garnish with fresh berries in the glass.

Note: If you love tequila cocktails, but not the hangover or the liver damage, consider some of the non-alcoholic tequilas currently available for purchase. Non-alcoholic cocktails are becoming a popular thing, and they taste great. If I have a choice, it’s my “go-to” refreshment pick.

SCENE: TEXAS PIZZAFEST

1. Guests at the Texas PizzaFest pizza making class in Salado prepare their personal pizzas with their favorite toppings.

2. World Pizza Champion Rocky Shanower smiles as he pulls a pizza out of the oven.

3. Courtney Shanower serves salad for guests.

4. Attendees perfect hand-tossing dough.

Photos by BECKY STINEHOUR

Epic Adventures Await

TRANSPORT YOURSELF WITH THREE FANTASTIC SERIES

By M. CLARE HAEFNER

Covers courtesy of the publishers

It is easy to get lost in the adventures of Corayne an-Amarat and her companions in Victoria Aveyard’s Realm Breaker trilogy as they battle darkness to prevent What Waits from consuming Allward.

A fan of Aveyard since her debut young adult Red Queen series, the Realm Breaker trilogy — Realm Breaker, Blade Breaker and Fate Breaker — shows her growth as a storyteller with another thrilling fantasy adventure.

Corayne, who is the daughter of a pirate and the Cor blood heir, and her six companions — a squire, an immortal Elder, an assassin, a warrior, a witch and a former priest — are Allward’s only hope against her uncle Taristan and his young queen Erida as they get help from an evil magician and the powerful demonic ruler of another realm intent on taking control of Allward at any cost.

Pulled into the adventure from the first few chapters, Fate Breaker, which was released in February, was an epic conclusion to this actionpacked trilogy. The final installment was worth the wait as Corayne and her companions fight their fate, hoping to save the world despite all odds or die trying.

While Aveyard tells an excellent story, few fantasy writers are better world builders than Sarah J. Maas. Beloved for her Throne of Glass and Court of Thorns and Roses series, the Crescent City trilogy may be her best work yet.

Despite the nearly two-year wait between installments — the House of Blood and Earth (March

2020), the House of Sky and Breath (February 2022) and the House of Flame and Shadow (January 2024) — the adventures of the half-Fae and half-human Bryce Quinlan are more than worth it in this contemporary romantic fantasy series.

Throughout the trilogy, Bryce seeks revenge in a world of magic, with danger around every corner as she and her rebel allies battle to save their world from the Asteri.

Packed with surprises and plot twists you won’t see coming, the Crescent City trilogy is captivating. Maas weaves her magic through a cast of many characters, once again crafting a narrative told from several points of view. Her flawed heroines and heroes are constantly pushed to be their best selves and forced to dig deep to work together to save their world.

If you’re not tired of epic fantasies with fierce female protagonists after finishing the Realm Breaker and Crescent City trilogies, you should definitely pick up another great young adult series from Rebecca Yarros. The Empyrean adventures begin with Fourth Wing (May 2023)

and Iron Flame (November 2023).

”I will not die today” is Violet Sorrengail’s personal mantra as the 20-year-old begins her first year in the Riders Quadrant at Basgiath War College. Expecting to enter the Scribe Quadrant to follow in her late father’s footsteps, Violet will need all her wits to survive after her mother — the fierce commanding general of the Riders Quadrant — orders Violet to join the hundreds of candidates striving to become the elite of Navarre: dragon riders.

With the kingdom’s protective wards failing, Violet and the other the cadets may be their kingdom’s only hope to survive the latest incursions in a 600-year war. But with fewer dragons willing to bond than cadets, it won’t be easy. Everyone at Basgiath has an agenda. And once you enter, there are only two ways out: graduate or die.

Yarros transports readers into the action with one breath-taking revelation after another in this epic and satisfying start to a five-book romantic fantasy series that you won’t be able to put down until you reach the final page.

Romance with a Wicked Twist

By PHOENIX CARLISLE

Cover courtesy of the publisher

Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephaine Garber is the twisting, imaginative, sweet as baked treats fantasy novel that is perfect for leading into this new spring season.

For as long as she can remember, Evangeline Fox has believed in true love and happy endings ... until she learns that the love of her life, Luc, will marry another. Desperate to stop the wedding and to heal her wounded heart, Evangeline strikes a deal with the charismatic but wicked Jacks, the Prince and Fate of Hearts. In exchange for his help, he asks for three kisses, to be given at the time and place of his choosing.

After Evangeline’s first promised kiss, she learns that bargaining with an immortal is a dangerous game — and that the Prince of Hearts wants far more from her than she’d pledged. He has plans for Evangeline, plans that will either end in the greatest happily ever after or the most exquisite tragedy.

We have all seen the current trend — bows, pink, fictional men, and being our best feminine self. This is the perfect book that has all of that. Evangeline Fox is so soft, sweet, feminine, and honestly I loved how she didn’t know every solution and made mistakes. Her flowy pink hair and whimsical dresses hide the tough, witty personality that shines as she goes throughout the first novel, even throughout the whole series.

Now let's talk about Jacks, the Prince and Fate of Hearts. If you loved Aaron Warner from Shatter Me, you're going to adore Jacks. The platinum hair, the witty banter, and the sweet, intimate moments have revealed new sides of him, all so perfectly timed to set up our new fictional crush.

Evangeline and Jacks together are hilarious — one moment then has you giggling and another has you blushing. These two intermingling is breathless and innocent.

Outside of our characters and interlocking plot, Garber gives us this jaw dropping, Pinterest-coded aesthetic. The constant descriptions of a world submerged in voluminous flowers, the world is constantly moving to reveal new buildings and hidden spots. There’s a trick up everyone’s sleeve that spins our main characters in a whirlwind of confusion and mysticism.

Evangeline herself is the definition of light feminine energy. She always adorns beautiful dresses that compliment her pink hair, which was such a fun touch to add to the character since pink hair is perfect for this fantasy world. She is a hopeless romantic and even as she navigates this horrid curse put upon the plot she keeps

that love intact. The characters that are met along the way have their own magical properties that progress the story, allowing the ability to understand how the rest of the world functions as the plot goes on. Garber gave us a visually appealing fantasy world that is wonderful to imagine.

Since it is a book series, I felt the second book dragged out a little too far ,which lost my interest 100 pages before it was finished, yet the third book has been released. I haven’t been able to read it, but I am hoping to soon to finally find out what happens to the curse, and revisit Jacks.

As the spring is welcomed through bluebirds and bluebonnets, read about the pink haired sweetheart and witty Prince of Hearts.

Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber is the fantasy book to dive into this spring. Don’t forget about the two additional books after to continue the adventure. Happy reading!

TEMPLE ARTIST SHOWCASES

Limitless Expression

By BRANDY CRUZ | Photos by TIFFANY ELAINE TEAGUE

For Tiffany Elaine Teague, art is more than just a medium for expression — it’s a gateway to endless possibilities.

“I love that art is truly limitless,” she said.

The Temple-based artist turned her love of doodling into a career thanks to her unique voice and vision, which has allowed her to artistically explore the possibilities — challenging herself as she creates thought-provoking works of art.

“My interest in creative expression started early in my childhood and was a lifelong hobby,” Tiffany said. “I was the type of kid who turned her school work in with doodles in all of the margins.”

The Central Texas native worked in retail until six years ago, when she decided to follow her passion and begin teaching art at Tap Tap Art Studios in Harker Heights. Shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic, she ventured into selling her own art and hasn’t looked back.

Tiffany’s main focuses are acrylic paints and polymer clays, and said she takes a special interest in human faces. Inspired by Spanish artist Salvador Dalí, she describes her artistic style as impressionistic realism.

“I am drawn to his bizarre, yet precise, creations,” Tiffany said. “My personal favorite is ‘Metamorphosis of Narcissus.’”

The unique piece of art was Dalí’s interpretation of the Greek myth of

Tiffany Elaine Teague takes a special interest in human faces, highlighting them in her acrylic paint and polymer clay pieces.

Narcissus, in which Narcissus fell in love with his reflection on a pool of water.

Just as Dalí’s works are often thought-provoking, Tiffany’s own mesmerizing artworks combine realism with the surreal aesthetic that feels almost dreamlike, especially her favorite piece, “Disassociate,” which

leaves the art observer pondering what could be on the beautiful woman’s mind.

“The background became an integral part of the painting by accident,” Tiffany said. “I started an acrylic pour which resulted in a smoky-looking background. This inspired a woman who was completely numb but still deep in thought.”

Although Tiffany creates her own works of art for sale, individuals may also commission art that resonates with them on a personal level. Whether it’s a custom portrait, a bespoke sculpture or a unique painting, the collaborative process makes for a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

DABBLE BY TIFFANY

ELAINE

Instagram: dabble_by_tiffany_elaine

Facebook: Dabble By Tiffany Elaine

Tik Tok: @dabblebytiffanyelaine

On Firm Foundations

By PATRICIA BENOIT | Photos by SKEEBO

Editor’s note: Easter Sunday is the biggest day of the year for churches. As the church pews fill up, we thought it would be a perfect time to share the architectural history of some of Bell County’s oldest places of worship.

CHRIST EPISCOPAL

The glowing white lilies blooming along the perimeter of Christ Episcopal Church’s Gothic architecture are fragrant hints of the lilies inside along the altar rails on Easter Sunday morning.

The Episcopalians’ house of worship, constructed in 1905, is the second oldest in Temple. The congregation is the oldest continuously meeting group in the city, officially beginning in 1883, with evidence of an Episcopal fellowship in early 1882. The church bell has tolled for every service since 1910.

At first, the fledgling congregation struggled financially. To save money, discarded steel railroad tracks were used in the church’s foundation and still support the flooring today.

Austin architect Arthur Osborn Watson in 1905 created Christ Episcopal Church as an eclectic, intimate worship space reflecting the congregation’s historic English-Anglican heritage.

The rusticated white Austin limestone stonework and distinctive stained-glass windows give the impression of an English country church. Inside, the dark woodwork, pews and altar reveal definite early 20thcentury arts-and-crafts styling popular in Temple at the turn of the century. The interior has a

homey character emphasizing a warm, welcoming ambiance appreciated by Central Texans.

Christ Episcopal differs from other ecclesiastical buildings of its time with one important feature: While other denominational designs center on the pulpit and preaching, Christ Church’s architecture focuses on communion (the Eucharist) and the altar. Since its earliest beginnings, the congregation has had a high regard for contemplative worship in classical settings.

About 20 years ago, the church underwent massive expansion and renovation to meet the needs of its flourishing congregation. Respecting Watson’s original design, architects used the same stone from the original 1905 quarry in Liberty Hill, thus, the extension seamlessly flows into the original edifice.

EIGHTH STREET BAPTIST

Like a mighty rock, Eighth Street Baptist Church in Temple has stood firm in the faith and a beacon of hope to African Americans.

In 1882, Rev. Lewis W. Mackey arrived in Temple and founded what is now Eighth Street Baptist Church. The nation was barely 15 years away from

the Civil War. Mackey sensed a larger mission as freemen came to work on the railroads, so he named his new congregation Saint Love All Baptist Church, reflecting his optimism.

Saint Love All had gained a solid toehold, attracting African American members from all economic strata — doctors, lawyers, business owners, teachers, railways workers and laborers. During the 1890s, Saint Love All became the site for denominational conventions attracting up to 800 visitors.

By 1905, the congregation built a spacious wood-frame building distinguished by a towering steeple. Renovations followed in 1911, when the congregation’s name was formally changed to Eighth Street Baptist. By 1930, the steeple was removed, the exterior was bricked, and a basement and roof garden were added.

In recent years, members launched outreach ministries to the home-bound and elderly, youth programs and Bible studies.

“Our challenge is to be the ‘church,’” the Rev. Dock Ulysses Reese Sr., pastor from 1968-1976, said. “Not a club for friends. Not an institute for establishing ideas. Not a school perpetuating

methods, but a church that lifts Jesus so that he can draw men unto himself.”

FIRST UNITED METHODIST BELTON

Shortly after Bell County was created out of Milam County in 1850, the Methodists sensed a widening mission field into the Blackland prairie.

In November 1850, the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, (the church’s official name then) purchased a lot in the newly organized county seat for “a house or place of worship.” It was an audacious step because Bell County at the time was on the farthest reaches of the Texas frontier — wild, unsettled and sparsely populated.

Circuit riding preachers filled the pulpits on Sundays, first in a grove of trees, until a suitable building could be found. The congregation gathered in several temporary buildings until in the late 1850s, when it built permanent hewn-cedar quarters with no flooring at Pearl and First Avenue.

By the 1880s, membership had outgrown its site, so from 1884-86 a larger Gothic-style sanctuary was constructed at 205 N. East St. with locally produced bricks and native stone foundation. Notable was its towering steeple,

pointing to heaven. The new building with its distinctive tower and bell became a Central Texas landmark, nicknamed “the cathedral church of the Northwest Texas Conference.” Ten-foot-tall metal finials with crosses atop the pilasters added majesty to the design.

The new location was a blessing. Baylor Female College moved nearby to Belton in 1886; First Avenue running east from the courthouse quickly became the town's most important shopping street. Most of the town's prominent residences were also located in surrounding neighborhoods.

By 1925, infrastructure issues forced removal of the steeple and metal finials. In 1950, when the congregation observed its centennial, 11 families donated memorial windows, serving as visible links to the congregation’s historic roots, its Christian heritage and present-day expanding mission.

The Texas Historical Commission designated First United Methodist as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1978.

If you know of an interesting Bell County home or building Tex Appeal readers would like to look inside, email editor@texappealmag.com.

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Learning to Grow

BELL COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS

OFFER TIPS FOR CENTRAL TEXANS

By AMY ROGNLIE | Photos courtesy of BELL COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS

Want to grow a garden and don’t know where to start? Visiting the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office in Belton would be a great start. The friendly folks from the Bell County Master Gardeners are ready and willing to get you off on the right foot. From the education center to the help desk to hands-on classes, these knowledgeable volunteers will do their best to answer all your gardening questions.

“We have folks wander in here all the time to ask, ‘What do y’all do here?’” says Teri Marceau, president of Bell County Master Gardeners.

The question should be “What don’t y’all do here?” when it comes to gardening. The staff teaches the citizens of Bell County, both young and old, about gardening. When I visited the extension office, I enjoyed perusing the displays of local soil types and the examples of common weeds. I also learned that folks can come into the office, call or email them, and they will help solve your gardening or plant problem. And if they don’t know the answer, they will research it for you or send you home with some helpful literature.

“Our goal is to increase our outreach through classes and workshops throughout the county. Currently we have been focusing on the west side of town. We hope to increase our reach to the east side of the county through our monthly seminars,” Marceau says.

Favorite classes include butterfly gardening, vegetable gardening, and native and adaptive plants. Some classes are conducted on-

site at the extension office, where participants learn everything from constructing worm towers, to crafting hypertufa pots, to whipping up a batch of herb butter. In addition, the Master Gardeners staff serve with the AgriLife Family and Community Health Department’s “Learn, Grow, Eat, Go” program for third to fifth grade students at several local elementary schools. Kids have the opportunity to build a garden, prepare the soil, and even learn about microbials. Students are thrilled to eat their produce and even take some home to share with their families.

When I visited the extension office in Belton, the volunteers were gearing up for the annual Bell County Home and Garden Show. While several volunteers potted up succulents to sell at their “Ask a Gardener” table, Marceau showed me around the lovely grounds, which is a work in progress. The group is currently in the process of rehabilitating the demonstration gardens at the extension office, making them more ADA accessible. Plans are also underway for a “pocket prairie” which will include wildflowers, native grasses, and habitats for birds and other wildlife. Other current areas include a succulent garden, a rose garden, and a native/adapted plant garden, as well as trial gardens where the current class of Master Gardener students conduct experiments.

The Master Gardeners also have their hands (literally) in many community-enriching projects. For example, the volunteer gardeners maintain the garden at the local Ronald McDonald House in Temple.

They are also involved in working with juvenile offenders at the Killeen Municipal Court Community Garden, where young men and women in legal trouble work in the garden as part of their community service. Last year, 8,000 pounds of produce was harvested from the garden and donated to local food banks and shelters. Besides that, the gardeners are very excited to be able to head back to the Veterans Association after not being able to teach there since

the pandemic. The Master Gardeners developed an award-winning plan for a healing garden on the VA grounds and hope to get the project underway soon. If that wasn’t enough, the staff teaches local garden clubs and homeschool groups, attends career days on Fort Cavazos, and teaches classes to the trainees at Eldred’s Nursery, a local training center for adults with disabilities.

“We are all volunteers here,” Marceau says. “You can come and

learn how to grow beans, or you can apply for the Master Gardener program. We have something for everyone.”

BELL COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS

Address: 1605 N. Main St., Belton

Phone: 254-933-5304

Website: bell.agrilife.org/bellcounty-master-gardeners/

Email: bell.mg@agnet.tamu.edu

Facebook: facebook.com/BCMGA

What’s Hot in Home Design?

HOME GYMS, SAFE ROOMS ARE POPULAR ADD-ONS

By DAVID STONE | Photos by WES ALBANESE and courtesy of JENNY WALLACE

Many of today’s homebuyers want more than just the basics — many are customizing their new digs with double ovens, mudrooms, craft rooms and built-in dog water bowls. The most requested custom addons are safe rooms to protect against intruders, outdoor kitchens, secret rooms and home gyms.

“We’re seeing a lot of requests for accent walls — wood that has different, cool shapes,”

Emily Marin of Flintrock Builders said. “It’s similar to ornate crown molding but on the walls. Some want a long hallway with wood having cool shapes. It gives the wall texture, and there’s no need to decorate the wall with pictures.”

“People also are wanting rooms without closets to use as offices, theaters, gyms or library space,” she added. “If it doesn’t have closets, it’s not considered a bedroom. It gives the homeowner

extra space to play around with.”

Gyms are the hottest new trend in homes right now, and according to local physical trainer Terri Carter, owner of Refine Personal Training, the home gym craze became very popular during the COVID years.

“People wanted more to do than sitting on the couch watching Netflix,” Carter said. “They have remained quite popular.”

Carter offered some suggestions for equipping that new home gym.

“Equipment you need would vary widely depending on what your goals are, your physical condition and any medical limitations you may have,” she said. “A very basic gym could consist of dumbbells, a yoga ball and a step, much like the ones that are used during step class.”

“For a more elaborate gym, create a mix of cardio equipment, such as a treadmill, a bike or an elliptical machine, with free weights, dumbbells, kettlebells, and barbells,” she said. “During COVID, several fitness companies introduced gyms that could be set up in your garage. Some of these Continued

mount to the wall and fold up when not in use.”

“These systems may include a bench press and a squat rack. They also have cables that could be attached to perform exercises such as lat pulldowns, rows and curls. These are excellent machines for those who don’t have a lot of space.”

“For those who have more room, the proper equipment would depend on what your goals are and your medical limitations,” Carter added. “For bad knees and bad backs, a recumbent bicycle with a back support is best. An elliptical machine also is a good choice for folks with bad knees because it has very little impact on the joints.”

In a brief survey of local residents, several mentioned the need for safe rooms or tornado shelters to protect against storms and home invasions.

“If I was building a new home right now, I would like a hidden, secret panic room,” said Bell County resident Irma Diaz Montano. “I would stock it with food, a phone, batteries, security camera monitors, a notebook and pen, a flashlight, a toothbrush and paste, and extra medication.”

Several residents, including Mary Graves Cox, said her new home includes a Christmas closet.

“Our tree stays decorated all year, and it is on a wheeled platform dolly,” she said. “We just roll it out and plug it in at Christmas. Other holiday decorations are in tubs on the closet shelves.”

Those wanting to customize their home should discuss their needs with their home builder or contractor.

Terri Carter says the home gym concept began during the pandemic. Kitchen trends include light, open spaces with marble or granite counters and stainless steel appliances.

The Pitmasters

Junior Reece Medrano and senior Jordan Magana return for The Pitmasters’ second year of competition.

TEMPLE HIGH SCHOOL BBQ TEAM ENJOYS RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

By TONYA WARREN | Photos courtesy of ERIC LARSON, TEMPLE ISD

There are some local wildcats on the prowl that are focused and hungry. Although they move stealthily through the area with focus and fortitude, you don’t have to worry about hiding your children and small pets. These young wildcats have tasted success, not with people or pets, but success that comes from hard work and winning high school barbecue competitions.

Temple High School faculty adviser and culinary arts teacher Maragaret Fyffe initially learned high school barbecue teams were becoming a big cross country hit through her professional meetings and workshops.

“I wanted to try a different culinary outlet, and I knew my students would be up for the challenge,” she said.

At the initial meeting two years ago, to gauge student interest in forming a team, 25 students showed. Not for the faint of heart, once students learned the time commitment and hard work required for success, interest waned to five who decided they were up for the challenge.

The Pitmasters, the team’s name chosen by its inaugural students last year, finished 16th in the High School BBQ State Championship last spring, a feat that qualified them for nationals. The five-member team smoked other teams by earning second place in the National High School BBQ Association’s National Championship last June in Hutto.

Senior Jordan Magana and Junior Reece Medrano, both returning members from last year, have been instrumental in fostering a sense of teamwork and feeling of belonging for new members Joey Deleon, Reginald Fields and Sebastian Hargrove. While other high schoolers might find camaraderie on the gridiron, stage or UIL events, these teens bond over pit smoke, chunks of protein, secret sauces and more. Full of pride and hopefulness, the team eagerly presents a beautiful plate of barbecue before a discerning panel of judges, hoping they’ve nailed a winner.

Joking and ribbing one another helps these teens bond, but make no mistake, they’re quick to share all they’ve learned through being on the barbecue team together.

“I’ve learned a lot about communication,” Medrano said. “Things can get really stressful at competitions, so communication is key.”

Magana said he’s learned a lot about teamwork and people’s personalities. Teammates laughed as Hargrove admitted cooking and eating free food is a big perk of being on the team. Fields appreciates all that he’s learned about the craft and learning to work with different people.

“I’ve always loved cooking,” Deleon said, “Being on the Pitmasters team has really brought out that love.”

No doubt, these teens work hard, from practice every Sunday before competition, to loading up three smokers, tents and other items needed for a successful competition. No matter the weather, the competition will go on.

“That competition last June, it was so miserably hot,” Fields and Reece both said.

Coach Joe Medrano, Reece’s dad, has himself scored big in barbecue championships. His respect

and care for the team is evident in his communication and teaching methods.

“The best part of this is being able to teach kids the art and technique of smoking and grilling proteins,” he said.

He also admitted to having a soft spot in his heart for being able to coach his son, and enjoys this special time together.

Allison Medrano, Coach Medrano’s wife and Reece’s mother, also has an important role with the team. In addition to her professional job as a Temple High School counselor, she and Joe provide the house for Sunday practice, she cooks breakfast, washes dishes, buys the practice meats, and anything else needed to help the team be successful. Getting to be with the team outside of school hours is really great, she said.

“My favorite part is watching five kids who are so very different come together and become a team that works so well with each other,” she said.

She admitted a great part of competitions is looking at the shock and awe on the team’s faces when they’re announced as the winning team.

It’s no picnic spending hours every Sunday learning fire and pit management, qualities to look for when selecting a protein, and waking up around 4:30 a.m. on competition days. However, this mighty team of five teenagers will build on what they’ve learned thus far in this tasty craft: excellent communication skills, teamwork, and patience.

They are eager to smoke other teams at the state competition in Burnett on May 4, and hopefully

advance to the national competition in Branson, Mo., June 7-10. Going to the national competition, the whole team agreed, would be the highlight of it all, knowing their long hours and hard work would give them a taste of victory at the next level.

“No matter what happens,” the coach said, “these kids are winners.”

The Pitmasters won first place at the 2023 Regional Championship. The team finished second at the National High School BBQ Association’s National Championship in 2023 and they have their eyes set on the win this year.

Backyard Bliss

OUTDOOR KITCHENS, DROUGHT-TOLERANT LANDSCAPING, PUTTING GREENS AND PATIO FAMILY ROOMS ARE PART OF OUTDOOR TRENDS

By DAVID STONE | Photos by SKEEBO

Aparty-ready backyard used to include swing sets, a barbecue grill, picnic tables and perhaps a swimming pool. My, how times have changed.

Today’s homebuyers are looking to get a lot more bang out of the backyard buck, and today’s hot properties often include full outdoor kitchens and living spaces, putting greens, water features, color wheel lighting and drought-resistant landscaping.

“We are absolutely getting a lot of calls for elaborate backyard designs,” said Ben Pamplin, owner of Belton-based Heart of Texas Landscape & Irrigation. “Outdoor kitchens and living spaces are especially big, and drought-resistant landscaping is getting more popular every year.”

“Today’s outdoor kitchens are often a complete kitchen outside, and some folks are even stocking it with dishes,” Pamplin said. “We’ve even had requests for dishwashers.”

“One of the most popular items for outdoor kitchens are high-end pizza ovens,” he added. “We’re talking way more than a barbecue pit.”

“Living spaces are also big — we’re done several lately,” he added. “These include covered sitting areas complete with outdoor furniture and a television. The TV’s are a must. On some of these projects we hire out subcontractors to take care of electricity and plumbing.”

“I think families are taking advantage of more together time with their kids,” Pamplin said. “They get fresh air, and enjoy a fun night at home. That’s what’s prompting these outdoor family settings.”

He said a lot of homeowners are also including recreation and entertainment options in their backyard designs.

“Putting greens are extremely popular,” he said. “Typically, they consist of a large greens area with multiple holes, and taller turf around the perimeter for practicing chip shots.”

“People are wanting synthetic grass for their

greens so they can enjoy optimal use all year. Synthetic grasses have advanced tremendously over recent years — they are thicker, taller and more realistic than ever before.”

Pamplin said there is also a demand for synthetic turf for pets. They are used in areas of high pet traffic and in places the pets frequently go to the bathroom.

“People are requesting synthetic turf as accent spots — not for a fully-covered backyard,” he said.

“But keeping natural grass adds a cooling effect to the yard you don’t get with synthetic turf or rocks.”

Many folks are including LED lighting systems, complete with color wheels, to their backyard. And yes, swimming pools and hot tubs are still popular additions.

“The lights add a nice look to complement landscaping,” Pamplin said. “The color wheels are used to change the ambiance, and they can be set to come on and off with the sun.”

Pamplin said that drought-resistant landscaping — xeriscaping — has become a growing part of his business since an extreme drought hit Central

Texas in 2011.

“We had no rain for three months and temperatures were well over 100 degrees. That happened again last year, but the 2011 drought started a swing toward drought-tolerant plants, and Central Texas has a lot of new residents who have moved here from dry states. They are familiar with this type of landscaping.”

The goal of xeriscaping is to create an attractive yet functional outdoor space, while minimizing the need and use of water. The process uses plants native to the Central Texas environment and involves efficient irrigation systems, such as drip

irrigation, to reduce water waste.

Many property owners are unaware of the cost savings and environmental benefits of droughttolerant landscaping. A typical 1,500-square-foot lawn consumes almost 100,000 gallons of water per year — that’s about six average sized swimming pools. Experts say drought-tolerant landscaping uses up to 75 percent less water.

Pamplin said Heart of Texas Landscape contracts with local builders such as Kiella Homes, Carothers Homes and Whatley Homes to provide drought-tolerant landscaping for new housing developments across Central Texas.

“We do a lot of residential landscaping, but a big part of business is commercial,” Pamplin said. “We’ve done landscaping at several schools in Belton, Jarrell and Troy, and we have maintained the grounds at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor for years. We landscape for large medical facilities as well as smaller businesses such as restaurants, offices and retail establishments.”

Pamplin said many drought-tolerant plants are native to the Bell County area.

“There are quite a few options when it comes to planting drought-tolerant lawns and beds,” he

Planting Your Legacy

said. “We use plants that bloom and look attractive without requiring a lot of water.”

Pamplin said a popular choice for lawns that don’t require heavy watering is Bermuda grass.

“Any kind of Bermuda is hearty, and once it’s established, it requires minimal watering,” he said. “We use a lot of Tiff 419 — it’s very pretty and similar to grass used on golf course fairways. You can cut the water off for two weeks, and it may brown a bit, but it will green back up quickly.”

“Saint Augustine was a popular grass for years, but it requires a ton of water,” he said. “Some Texas municipalities have even disallowed the planting of Saint Augustine — it’s going away. Another drought-tolerant choice is buffalo grass, but it's not quite as pretty for a home. You can make Bermuda grass look nice with minimal watering.”

Landscaped beds using fewer plants and more rocks is becoming prevalent, and Pamplin said large boulders look great and require zero water. But, they do require additional planning.

“Rocks heat up — they can reach 150 degrees under this Texas sun,” he said. “Plants don’t like that, so you have to surround the plants with mulch so they don’t get scorched.”

Pamplin offered several suggestions for plants

that survive and even thrive during a Texas summer.

“Red yucca, soft-leaf yucca, spineless cactus, agave, century plants — these are all very drought tolerant,” he said. “Lantana is another good option and it comes in several color variations.”

For assistance designing the backyard of your dreams, contact Heart of Texas Landscape & Irrigation or another landscaper to make your dreams a reality.

Our brokerage, ALL CITY REAL ESTATE, held their Annual Awards Banquet last November in Austin, and we were honored to receive “Outstanding Team of the Year 2023”. All City Real Estate has over 1000+ agents across Texas as well as numerous teams who are very successful, so being recognized for this award was exciting!

The award we received states the following: “The Outstanding Real Estate Team of the Year award recognizes excellence, innovation, outstanding production, and performance for a real estate team. This team has positioned themselves as true industry leaders by working seamlessly together, utilizing their collective expertise in market knowledge, client relations, negotiation, and marketing. This award celebrates the team’s dedication to collaboration, professionalism, client satisfaction, and market leadership.”

We could not have achieved this award without our amazing clients who trust us with one of the most important transactions one can make. Receiving this recognition is truly an honor. THANK YOU to our clients, our community partners, and to our brokers for this amazing honor!

Contact us:

hearthstonehomegroup.com

127 Lake Road, Suite 202, Belton TX 76513

737-234-0518

This team has positioned themselves as true industry leaders by working seamlessly together “ “

Gateway to the South

TEMPLE GREENHOUSE HELPS REVOL GREENS EXPAND

By DAVID STONE | Photos courtesy of REVOL GREENS

A20-acre greenhouse just south of Heidenheimer is producing five varieties of lettuce, several mixed greens products and four organic salad kits — Greenhouse Caesar, Southwest Baja, Sesame Ginger and Sweet Poppyseed.

So which of the tasty freshly grown products are the most popular? According to Jess Dillon, marketing director for Austin-based Revol Greens, it depends on who you ask.

“We all have our favorites,” she said with a smile. “Our most popular salad blend is our Organic Spring Mix, and our most popular salad kit is our Organic Greenhouse Caesar Salad Kit.”

“We grow organic green leaf, red leaf, Romaine,

arugula and butter lettuce at the greenhouse near Temple,” Dillon said.

Although Revol grows both organic and conventionally-grown greens at its greenhouse farms in Tehachapi, Calif., Athens, Ga., and Owatonna, Minn., locations, only organic produce is grown at the Temple site.

Dillon said there are no plans to expand the local facility beyond the existing 20 acres in 2024, “but our team is continuously optimizing our growing process to increase output.”

“Our goal is to provide customers across the United States access to fresh produce, so we always are exploring potential expansion options,”

A 20-acre greenhouse near Temple produces 42,000 pounds of lettuce each day for Revol Greens.

Dillon added.

Short growing seasons help the company produce high yields throughout the year.

“The growth period depends on the lettuce variety, but it is typically between 15 and 18 days from planting to harvest,” she said. “Every acre produces 750,000 pounds of lettuce per year.”

Company-wide, Revol has 380 employees, and 123 of those are based in Texas. The company moved its headquarters from Minnesota to Austin in 2022.

“Texas has been a great location for our fourth greenhouse,” Dillon said. “It truly does provide us with a gateway to the South.”

“By growing in Temple, our greens spend four days less in transit to our customers than they would if they were coming from California,” she said. “For consumers, that means they’ll ultimately be able to enjoy our greens for longer.”

The Temple area greenhouse farm is along FM 436, south of Heidenheimer, and it is producing a whopping 42,000 pounds of lettuce every day and about 15 million pounds per year.

The greens are being sold locally under the Revol brand and under private labels at Walmart, H-E-B, Sprouts, Target and at United Supermarkets in West Texas, according to Dillon.

Peech Line Products

SMALL-BUSINESS OWNER CREATES ESSENCE OF FOOD IN CANDLES

By RACHEL STRICKLAND | Photos by BECKY STINEHOUR

At first glance, Peech Line Products appears to sell food, and if you were to peruse its social media presence, you’d see an assortment of waffles, smoothie bowls, cupcakes and ice cream. It’s only upon closer inspection that it becomes clear that these deliciouslooking food items are made of wax. That’s right — Peech Line Products sells candles that look and smell like food. Warning: they’re not actually edible.

Georgia native Alacia Williams started her own candle-making business, Peech Line Products, in 2020. She said she’s always loved candles and crafting, so combining them just made sense. When she first started making candles, though, she admitted they came out terribly, and she almost quit. But she kept researching, watching YouTube videos, and practicing, and eventually, something clicked. Once she learned how to successfully manipulate the wax into shapes, she quickly found her niche — candles that look and smell like food.

Williams has a huge variety in her online shop, including candles shaped like chicken and waffles, red beans and rice, smoothie bowls, cinnamon rolls, and corn on the cob. She said that the sweeter foods have scents to match, but the savory foods have more generic, fresh scents. She also has a lot of process videos on her social media accounts, which show just how intricate and impressive her work is.

The name of Williams’ business came from her home state of Georgia.

“Our state fruit is a peach, and I love peaches anyway. I’m also a comedian; I always have a punch

Alacia Williams started her own candle-making business in 2020.

line,” she said. “I just combined the two together, but I wanted to spell it differently, so I used two e’s.”

Williams’ entire candle-making process is done from scratch. She buys natural, nontoxic wax and essential oils from wholesalers so she’s able to control exactly what her candles are made from. She said she never uses just one oil, either — she mixes them to create an original, unique scent.

Williams has made a lot of centerpiece candles for people’s homes, including some that look like apple and cherry pies, and even a margarita candle that was made with clear wax so it looked like liquid. She said these larger centerpiece candles are especially popular around the holidays.

While Peech Line is an online business, Williams has done a few pop-ups around Texas, including in

Austin and Houston. She also had a temporary kiosk in the Killeen Mall last fall, and she plans to reopen it this year. Williams also has some of her candles for sale in Mon’Amie’s Caribbean Flava Ice in Killeen.

In the future, Williams plans on opening her own storefront in multiple locations, and she dreams of becoming a major product line.

“I look up to Bath and Body Works, and I would like to become a huge company full of products that I’ve created myself,” she said.

When she does open a storefront, she also wants to have the option for customers to build their own candles.

“I put a lot of time into my products,” she said. “I go the extra mile and put detail into my candles so that they look realistic. Anybody can make a candle in a jar, but to actually craft a candle that looks like food — that takes a lot of time and effort.”

Website: peechline.com

Instagram and TikTok: @officialpeechline

Peech Line Products features candles that look and smell like food. They may look tempting, but don‘t eat them!

CENTRAL TEXAS COMMUNITIES BRACE FOR THE

Great American Eclipse

By BRANDY CRUZ | Photos by BRANDY CRUZ and courtesy photos

As the U.S. prepares for the Great American Eclipse, Central Texas is poised for the best view of the rare celestial event.

The next total eclipse in North America will not happen until 2044, so seeing it now, with the expansive skies and varied landscapes of Central Texas may be your best bet of witnessing it in your lifetime. According to climate researchers at the Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies, Texas is the best place to view the eclipse in the United States due to the estimated lack of clouds covering the sky. To be absolute certain, they recommend checking weather forecasts beginning April 6 for the most accurate weather data.

The astronomical occurrence will begin at 12:18 p.m. April 8, with totality at 1:36 p.m. Depending on where you are in Bell County, totality will last between 3 minutes, 43 seconds to 4 minutes, 22 seconds. After totality, the partial eclipse will last until 2:58 p.m. Choosing just one viewing location may be your biggest struggle, but we have compiled a list of other things to consider as the eclipse nears.

EVENTS

Visitors will not be coming to the area just for the day, but are expected to make a weekend trip. Many will be looking for things to do in Central Texas. Out of state visitors will also be expecting that famous Texas hospitality.

TEMPLE: Although the city has no official events planned, discovertemple.com/eclipse2024 includes a lot of helpful information, including a countdown timer. The website also includes a calendar of other events during the eclipse.

BELTON: Paul Romer, public information officer for the city, said Market Days will be open the weekend of the eclipse. A NASA ambassador will be conducting an

outdoor presentation and an indoor presentation at the Bell County Museum. Check beltontxsolarbration. my.canva.site for more information.

Schoepf’s Barbecue will host its third annual Bulls & BBQ event at the Bell County Equine/Livestock Complex, which will include bull riding, mutton busting and other popular rodeo events. That evening, Schoepf’s will feature a concert by Shane Smith & the Saints as part of its 2024 Texas Music Series. To find out more information, including costs, visit schoepfsbbq.com.

KILLEEN: The city has been planning for the Great American Eclipse for years and has a lot of events planned. Visit killeentexas. gov/632/Killeen-Eclipse-2024.

Central Texas College’s Mayborn Science Theater, which has the only planetarium within a 60-mile radius, will definitely be a hotspot, with events planned throughout the weekend. NASA personnel, meteorologist Bill Hecke and astronomer Warren Hart will be giving groups insight into the science behind the phenomena.

SALADO: Barrow Brewing Company is teaming up with Dark Green Light Productions to present Sounds Over Salado Solar Sessions, which includes aerialist dancers, live music, special food and commemorative merchandise. Tables should be reserved in advance. For more information, visit barrowbrewing.com/events.

For more events in the village, visit visitsaladotexas.com.

WHERE TO STAY

Hotels and other rental properties have been sold out in anticipation for the eclipse, but some cities have opened areas for camping.

BELTON: Heritage Park will be open for camping starting at 10 a.m. April 5. The 155-acre park includes a playground, dog park, picnic tables, grills and a fishing dock. Campers may also launch kayaks into the Leon River.

SALADO: The village has two RV parks for those looking for a campground. Contact Salado Sky at saladoskyrvpark.com or 254-4103091. Contact Salado RV Park at saladorvpark.com or 254-390-9500.

OTHER LOCATIONS: Rover Pass, an RV Park and campground reservation website, has compiled a list of places to camp along the path of totality at roverpass.com/p/texassolar-eclipse.

SAFETY

Safety is always important to remember, especially when large crowds are expected. Bell County Emergency Management has been meeting with its partners to consider any potential issues that may arise leading up to the April 8 eclipse.

“We understand what we could potentially be facing with the influx of people coming into the area for the event, along with the days leading up to the event,” Bell County Emergency Management Coordinator Bob Reinhard said. “We have a plan in place that will allow us to continue to provide services to our citizens and to those who choose to come to Bell County.”

EYE SAFETY: Amid the excitement of the day, experts remind everyone of the paramount importance of protecting one’s eyesight while viewing the eclipse.

From start to finish, the eclipse will last approximately two and a half hours, with a totality of more than four minutes. Although that seems like the perfect time to safely look at the sun, it could still damage your vision if you do not have the proper eye protection.

“You could have permanent damage, cause those cells do not regenerate,” Dr. Calvin Eshbaugh, an ophthalmologist with Baylor Scott & White Heath, explained about the damage caused by looking directly at the sun without the proper eye protection. “It is not worth the risk.”

“When watching a partial or annular solar eclipse directly with your eyes, you must look through safe solar viewing glasses (eclipse glasses) or a safe handheld solar viewer at all times,” Reinhard said. “Eclipse glasses are NOT regular sunglasses. Regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the sun.”

Jennifer Henager, program manager with Emergency Management of Temple, said eclipse glasses should meet International Organization for Standardization 12312-2. To ensure you have proper glasses in time for the eclipse, order eye protection as soon as possible to avoid any retailer supply issues or shipping delays.

TRAFFIC: Excitement leading up to the solar eclipse is immense, with officials expecting an influx of anywhere from 50% to 100% more people in Central Texas. Reinhard said people should expect large crowds, as well as the risks that come with population growth.

“With large gatherings, excessive traffic, and/or traffic congestion, people can sometimes become more vulnerable to accidents happening,” he said. “We ask those who plan on taking part in events during the eclipse to please be patient with one another, be mindful of your surroundings in a effort to reduce the number of accidents that could happen, and understand that with the population growth we are expecting, due to the same large gatherings and traffic congestion, it could take first responders longer to get to calls for service than normal. Rest assured that we are coming, but expect delays.”

Officials are expecting shortages of food, gas and other essentials. Peter Perez, director of Emergency Management for the city of Killeen, recommends people purchase necessities a week prior to the celestial event.

“One of the things we’re asking it to make sure you’re planning ahead,” Perez said. “If you can do your grocery shopping a week before and just get a few extra items to last you a couple of extra days – a few extra freezer or non-perishable food

items to last until that Tuesday or Wednesday, then you won’t have to go and deal with that headache of all those people at the stores.”

Perez also recommended people avoid any roads that are around large events that might be happening that day.

“If you’re not going to go and partake in that event, try to avoid those roads, so you’re not stuck in inconvenient traffic,” he said.

CELLULAR SERVICE: “Due to the increased number of people arriving in Central Texas, we expect potential disruptions in cellular service during eclipse weekend,” Henager said. “In the event of an emergency with no available cell service, remember that you can utilize the Text-to-911 feature for assistance.”

When utilizing the Text-to-911 feature, enter 911 without spaces or hyphens. Text the reason for your emergency, as well as the full address of the emergency. Use complete words and sentences, not abbreviations, and do not send photos, videos, GIFs or emojis to the operator.

During a virtual eclipse briefing hosted by Temple Emergency Management, Henager recommended people use walkietalkies to stay in contact with family members, just in case cellular service is disrupted.

Reinhard advised people to limit the strain on cell towers by texting instead of calling. He also said to be mindful of streaming video, sending

photos or using the internet on a cellular device, which can put further strain the towers.

“Infrastructure of all kinds has its limits in terms of capacity. Cellular infrastructure is no different,” Reinhard said. “Once a cell tower has met its capacity, people in that area could see a degradation in cell service until the use of that tower comes back down below its capacity.”

“Remember the phrase, ‘Text if you can, call if you must,’” Perez added.

ENJOY YOURSELF: NASA has instructions for creating a pinhole projector to view the eclipse safely. Building one with your children would be a great way to introduce science and astronomy in a fun and memorable way. Visit svs.gsfc.nasa. gov/14391 for the instructions.

Perez suggested local businesses use the opportunity for exposure and recommended businesses embrace shipping or pick-up orders to make it as easy as possible for visitors.

“If you’re a restaurant, if you’re a little boutique, people are gonna want to come and see what you have for sale,” Perez said. “The easier you can make it to those visiting our area to place an order with your business, the more likely you are to get their business.”

“Embrace this rare phenomenon and prioritize safety by taking necessary precautions,” Henager said. “Enjoy the experience responsibly and visit bellcountyeclipse.com for more information.”

Garden of Resources

CULTIVATE TECHNOLOGICAL TOOLS FOR LEARNING

After the COVID shutdown, many of our students became accustomed to using technology in their day-to-day education. And, love it or hate it, technology use has continued to be a huge part of our students’ experiences in the classroom. All our students have devices that can both distract them from and connect them to important learning opportunities. It can be difficult for parents and educators to know what technology is helpful and when to use it. However, from the jungle of modern technology, we can help our students grow into tech-savvy learners.

The best way to begin purposeful technology use, both in the classroom and at home, is to set boundaries and expectations. Like any good garden, students grow best in the “quality soil” of knowing what is expected of them. In the classroom, this can look like encouraging students to put phones away to help them focus on classroom activities, or limiting time on iPads and other devices so that students have a variety of learning experiences.

Setting limitations on technology use at home can be equally beneficial. Students may need to be encouraged to step away from their devices. Even when using those devices for schoolwork, our students’ brains may simply need a break. As a bonus, with the weather improving into the spring months, going outside is a great way for students to take a break from technology.

Students also best use technology to support their learning when they have a clear expectation of what is and is not allowable. For example, a teacher may allow the use of AI technology to assist in revising an essay after students submit a first draft. However, most teachers are likely not going to approve of students using AI in place of writing their own original draft. Helping our students navigate these nuances can germinate the seeds of responsible technology use.

Along with setting boundaries and expectations, we can also nurture certain technologies that can enhance students’ learning when used

appropriately. For example, students can benefit from videos online that explain and explore concepts in new ways. Audiobooks can help struggling readers access a text that might be difficult for them to read on their own, or it can enhance the reading experience of any book for students who simply enjoy listening to a text. Even something as simple as a spelling or grammar checker can help a struggling writer convey ideas thoughtfully and accurately in writing.

Like choosing the right plants for your home garden, choosing the best technologies to support student learning depends on a variety of factors. Parents and guardians should consider their students’ age, maturity, familiarity with different technology, and level of schoolwork when considering what technologies students might use at home to support their learning goals. Since schools have already sifted through many of the options, students and parents may want to ask what options their teachers recommend.

We should be choosy about the technology students use for education purposes. Since COVID, many companies have developed a wide variety of educational tech tools, but not all tools are great for all students.

Just as choosing the best technology for student learning relies on many variables, so too does weeding out certain options. Students, parents, and teachers may need to eradicate those apps, sites, and devices that don’t enhance, support, and grow student’s learning. If concerned, parents and guardians may want to visit with their students’ teachers regarding technologies that promote themselves as educational but are actually just games or that students more often use in place of learning rather than to enhance learning.

Even the best technological resource can hinder student learning if it is too distracting, cumbersome, or too easily short-cuts the learning process.

Eventually, with proper care and enough time and space to learn, our students can blossom into learners who embrace technology as a tool for reaching their own learning goals.

Johna Underwood teaches English at Gatesville High School.

JOHNA UNDERWOOD

A Schoolroom of Hope

By PHOENIX CARLISLE | Photo courtesy of the BELL COUNTY MUSEUM

Editor’s Note: The following article was an essay written for the Barbara Jordan UIL Essay competition. Phoenix Carlisle was named the top speaker for the District 22-5A High School Academic Meet and will advance to the state competition. AP Style changes have been made, as well as some minor paragraph structuring.

“Now the training of men is a difficult and intricate task. Its technique is a matter for educational experts, but its object is for the vision of seers. If we make money the object of man-training, we shall develop money-makers but not necessarily men; if we make technical skill the object of education, we may possess artisans but not, in nature, men. Men we shall have only as we make manhood the object of the work of the schools — intelligence, broad sympathy, knowledge of the world that was and is, and of the relation of men to it — this is the curriculum of that Higher Education which must underlie true life.” Quote from W.E.B Du Bois’ The Talented Tenth.

Education is a complex art form. It requires patience and structure while demanding a fluid flow of knowledge. Knowledge that has been rewritten throughout time to teach the youth of the future what they may need to go out into the world as capable persons. Unfortunately, the concept of education is regarded in our modern American society as a requirement, something that everyone goes through although it may or may not stick with the individual student. There are moments when we have to appreciate this easily accessible concept because there were times in our own country’s history when this was not the truth for

everyone. Decades where hundreds of black students were repeatedly told no to something as small yet impactful; an education. Almost every student will complain about the long hours of boring useless lectures and materials without realizing the privilege it is to be granted higher learning. The small student body of West Belton, later renamed T.B Harris, school understood the trials and tribulations of gaining an education as black students during a time of southern segregation.

Within Central Texas, the town of Belton, next to the west bank of Nolan Creek, stands the first African American school in the area. The three room building that taught all grade levels, only named “Colored School,” stood proudly for the first time in 1882 with its one teacher, Mrs. Aleck McGee, who would teach for $35 per month. The next teacher introduced to the enrichment of these students was Professor Thomas B. Harris (1862-1907), who began teaching the high school students in 1890 until his death in 1907. He was a well loved teacher and principal who would be honored for his early contributions to the foundation of the schooling. Luckily by 1900, the school was renamed to “West Belton,” still segregated yet not singled out.

Then began the fires. There were three reported fires during the history of the institution that would completely ruin the buildings yet would lead to an improvement in structure and the enrichment of the student body. If you deep dive into the history, there will be no report of what caused any of the fires, just a year and statement. Reported facts, a blank statement rather than what did happen. Accident or arson? Texas heat upon dry grass

or racially motivated? The first fire has no year associated with it, only acknowledgment. After the first fire there was a new building to be set, this time with six rooms to accommodate a continuation of the growing school. That would then burn down in 1935, be rebuilt, then burned down again in 1936. This is the final building that is standing today. This would also be the building that would be renamed T.B Harris, to honor the supporting professor. There would be several additions added to the school such as quote, “frame buildings were constructed to house the vocational and hot lunch programs. A south wing with a library, three classrooms, office and hall space was added in 1951-1960, a modern gym/auditorium was added east of the main building in 1962. The auditorium was the site of many community as well as school activities,” according to the Clio newspaper. The 50’s and 60’s is when the majority of the records will show the most history of the school, most likely due to the record keeping that wouldn’t be burned.

The school would continue to educate classes of black students, encouraging bigger things out of their student body then staying in the, at the time, small farming town of Belton. The ’60s paved new roads for black students as the Civil Rights movement grew across the country. Unfortunately despite the Brown vs Board of Education case officially “ending” public school segregation, this would be ignored by many Southern schools including T. B. Harris. It wasn’t until the Civil Rights Act of 1964, signed by Lyndon B. Johnson, that would “forbid racial discrimination in any activity or program that received financial support from the federal government,

Within Central Texas, the town of Belton, next to the west bank of Nolan Creek, stands the first African American school in the area. The three room building that taught all grade levels, only named “Colored School,” stood proudly for the first time in 1882 with its one teacher, Mrs. Aleck McGee, who would teach for $35 per month.

including public school systems. The act required the elimination of racial discrimination from classrooms, school-sponsored projects outside the classroom, services to pupils, educational facilities, hiring and assignment of faculty, and parents’ participation in certain school activities.” (Clio News)” March of 1966 N. L. Douglas, the at the time Belton School board superintendent, would notify all families with students within the school that the black junior high and high school were now being integrated, yet Harris would

be turned into an elementary school. Although families with children first through sixth grade had their option when it came to the freedom of choice for elementary schools, only 75 children would be in attendance causing T. B. Harris School to officially close on Sept. 7 of 1966 then officially phased out on the 15th that November. Despite its closing, the gym was still used for eighth grade sport events, it was the program area for special education, and more commonly used as office spaces. 1998 would be the year the building

would be granted a Texas historical marker to commemorate the lasting legacy of the school with its impact on the students who graduated. In 2005, the school was given to the Belton School district where $900,000 was given to renovate the building for city usage. The building is now open to the public for events such as art exhibitions, meetings for community groups, and event facilities. This building stands as a staple within the community’s history, a reminder of how important education and equality is within our state, within our country, to everyone.

This school is such a tailored part of the history of Belton. Although segregated, there was a legacy created through the student body, an impact on the students, benefiting the individual students as well as the equality of rights. The most notable student from T. B. Harris was Reverend Roscoe Harrison Jr., an active member of the Belton community and a 1963 graduate from Belton’s segregated school. After high school, he would go on to attend Temple College, Prairie View A&M, UMHB and then finally

going to school for communications in Oklahoma. After his extensive schooling, he would go on to be the first black writer for the Temple Daily Telegram, San Antonio Express-News, and an editor for JET magazine, where he would be a member of JET Magazine’s Pulitzer Prize winning team that covered the assassination and funeral of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., along with being a Baptist pastor for 20 years within the community he grew up in, adding onto the legacy of furthering educational rights then continuing an advancing life of battling inequality. He was able to apply and graduate from those colleges because of his school opportunity. Reverend Roscoe walked across the many college campuses that he wouldn’t have the opportunity to if there wasn’t a high school diploma, although from a segregated school it still gave him hope and a successful future.

Another reported student was Mittie Russell who would graduate as valedictorian in the class of 1951. She would volunteer at the Bethel AME Church in Belton for 70 years, and worked in the Belton ISD food service department. Mrs. Russell would become a member of the Nolan Creek Lodge, keeping her school’s history alive by serving as the West Belton Ex-Students Association’s secretary. She was known well in her community, not allowing her past to affect her life.

“The importance of heritage is to give the younger students an idea of the things we endured,” said Billy Smitha, a 70-year-old class of 1952 graduate, stated in a news article interview during an alumni reunion. "That's why it is so important — that way we never forget our history — because our parents attended the same school we graduated from and some of our children attended the school but did not finish there."

The student legacy of T.B Harris lives on through the yearly reunions and the West Belton Ex-Students Association.

“The West Belton – T.B. Harris Ex Students Association was formed in 1982 to make sure and keep the legacy of the school alive with

them. Their mission changed three years ago and changed their name to the West Belton – T.B. Harris Association. They realized that they not only wanted their association to be about the school they went to, but also the impact and importance of education. They also wanted to open their events to people not from West Belton or T.B. Harris so that other people could know about their school and its legacy,” reports the Belton Journal. The impact this school had made in its time of deeply racist beliefs then the impact it continues today as a celebration of education and equality as it is used for the whole of the Belton/Temple area.

Education should not be seen as a privilege or something to be withheld from a person, let alone a child who is trying to make their way in the world. African American children were denied their basic right as a citizen, as a human. It is in human nature to learn and grow ourselves, that should not be stripped from any child, in any country. The segregation period within America was a hard time that left thousands of people hurt, disregarded, and not seen as people. The school of T. B. Harris was a statement within the history of Belton, Texas. The school is used for the community, seen as a place for everyone, not as a segregated, disrespected area. These residents of the town honor the history, encouraging the enrichment of children about its history and significance. The citizens of the town take time to remember how far our history has come, the legacy of what started off as a three-room schoolhouse.

In the rapid growth and the rush of day-to-day life we must take time to honor how resilient those students were, and how education is a natural right of man rather than an inconvenience to the ever advancing, technological world we continue to bloom into. T. B. Harris is hope within a once small schoolhouse, a generation of segregated children that were able to gain the basic right of education, continuing a legacy of battling inequality one lesson at a time.

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