TexAppeal May 2015

L i f e & S t y l e i n C e n t r a l Te x a s

May 2015

Features

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Rolling in the dough

Learn to make homemade pasta

The first image that comes to Monica Macy’s mind when she thinks of her “Nonna,” Italian for grandmother, is her hands. “I remember Nonna Maria’s hands covered with flour, working the dough for making pasta. For her, cooking was showing love,” Macy said in her Harker Heights home.

By VALERIE L. VALDEZ

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Natural skin care

Learn to make products at home

Killeen resident Samara Elledge is drawn to natural elements in her life. It is a philosophy that she applies to eating, exercise, motherhood and skin care. Last year Elledge drew on that philosophy. She started making her own beauty products because she said it is more economical. Plus, it assures you know what is in your products.

By Gail Dillon

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Time to unwind

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Unconditional love

Moms find a few minutes to relax Jen and Kyle Hall create family The pasta’s boiling over, the kids are asking of their dreams with adoption you to settle a spirited dispute over whose turn it is to have the remote, and you just got another email from your boss. Being a mom can be overwhelming and exhausting. That’s why it is important for every family matriarch to take a moment for herself.

By Jessa McCLURE

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Mornings are filled with laughter and snacks as all six members of the Hall family crowd around the kitchen island in their Harker Heights home, all talking at the same time. The only pause in their chatter is to watch Annagrace twirl around in a hand-sewn dress.

By JESSA MCCLURE

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Gentleman rancher Dr. Baker’s grass-fed beef

It’s six o’clock in the morning and retired physician Dudley Baker is getting ready for the day’s work on his sprawling 450-acre ranch in Belton where he raises 100 percent grass-fed beef.

He pours his first cup of coffee before meeting with his ranch manager, John Chappell, a retired rodeo champion cowboy.

By Catherine hosman

Departments

11 TexTalk Neighbors

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Carla Hahn Clardy teaches at UMHB

14 TexTalk FLAVOURs LaRiv in Temple offers Tuscan-style dining

16 TexTalk BEAUTY Monica Macy opens her bag

18 TexTalk SPOTLIGHT Sojourn Real Estate

20 TexTalk SCENE Havana Nights raises funds for Temple CAC

22 TexTalk Calendar Upcoming events in May

9WELL-CONNECTED 10 Contributors 40 PROFILES

62 GIFT GUIDE ON the COVER Jen Hall with her four adopted children, Annagrace, Evelyn, Ian and Ken. 37 Photograph by JULIE NABOURS

APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Ideas for Mother’s Day

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ADVERTISER’S INDEX

26 TexTalk Well-Fed head Lisa Wingate’s “The Story Keeper”

58 Tex Pets Surrogate mom cares for tiger cubs

60 Tex FIT Water fitness classes

70 TexADVENTURES Explore Mother Neff State Park near Moody

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

From the Editor

Tex Appeal Life & Style in Central Texas

Dear Readers, This month as we prepare to honor the women we call mom, I remember my own mother, Annie, who seemed to spend all her time in the kitchen making freshly prepared meals. Except for the occasional TV dinner, mom made everything from scratch, including our pasta and ravioli. Not only did she cook our meals, she kept our modest home clean (I had my own chores to do), and she ironed everything. I recall watching her dampen and roll cotton linens, dad’s handkerchiefs and shirts, and put them in the refrigerator to cool so they would be easier to iron. I even had my own mini ironing board and iron that she would set up next to hers. I had the job of ironing my dad’s handkerchiefs.

Mom was always there to kiss away the hurt from a scratched elbow or knee when I was young, and guide me through a broken heart when I was older. We didn’t have a lot of money, and new furniture wasn’t an option.

One year she reupholstered our sofa using old draperies, pleated skirt, piping and all. Everyone thought we bought a new sofa.

When I entered high school, she returned to work part-time to supplement my dad’s salary and to give us the extra things like new school clothes, school supplies, Christmas and birthday gifts. Her income also gave us the luxury of close-to-home trips to nearby states. Wisconsin Dells was an annual retreat for us. She never bought anything for herself.

Times have changed, and today not all mothers are the stay-at-home variety. Many juggle family and a chosen career, others work because today’s economical environment requires a second paycheck to make ends meet, and some are single parents who carry the full responsibility for their children. But first and foremost they are moms.

To honor all moms, in this issue we introduce Jen and Kyle Hall who have opened their hearts and home to adopt four children and foster many more (page 37); Carla Hahn Clardy, the outgoing president of the Wildflower Guild who, for years, taught children etiquette (page 12); Monica Macy, a native Italian, army wife and mother of four who strives to feed her family wholesome, fresh foods and teaches other moms how to make their own pasta (page 29); and Manda Butler, animal care manager of mammals at the Cameron Park Zoo, who was surrogate mom to two infant tigers (page 56).

If you are looking for an outdoor getaway on Mother’s Day, or any other day, consider Mother Neff State Park in Moody, and visit the park that gave birth to all our state parks (page 68).

Take a few moments from your mom responsibilities, pour yourself a glass or cup of your favorite beverage and enjoy the May Moms Issue.

Feel free to contact us with any ideas you have for future issues.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Catherine Hosman

Tex Appeal Editor edittexappealmagazine@gmail.com 254-501-7511

MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

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

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

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

Tex Appeal Magazine is published monthly by Frank Mayborn Enterprises, Inc. 10 S. Third St., Temple, TX 76501. The cover and content of Tex Appeal Magazine is fully protected by copyright and cannot be reproduced in any manner without prior permission.

Subscriptions: For the United States, $24 per year, 12 issues.

Mail check to P.O. Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114.

Questions about subscriptions, call 254-774-5264.

Postmaster: Send address changes to: Tex Appeal Magazine, P.O. Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114.

How to contact us: Advertising: Call 254-774-5264 or 254-501-7494.

Editorial: Contact Catherine Hosman at 254-501-7511 or edittexappealmagazine@gmail.com or Jessica Pearce at 254-501-7442 or jpearcekdh@ gmail.com.

Letter To The Editor Dear Editor, The board for the Central Texas Orchestral Society wants to express to you our appreciation for James Stanley’s lovely appearance at, and news coverage of, our Jan. 17 concert “Friction,” at the Temple Cultural Arts Center. Not only was his presence, with his darling wife, an integrated part of our audience, his publicity of the event as published in the February edition of Tex Appeal Magazine was excellent! He was right-on accurate in his portrayal of the event.

Thank you for sending him to be among us. His personal words to us after he had heard the concert and mingled among us during the reception expressed his own appreciation for what we are doing to bring high-caliber classical music by national and internationally performing artists to Central Texas. Again, I thank you for highlighting CTOS in your very fine publication. We were proud to be featured in it.

Sincerely, Joelle Bedwell, Chairman Central Texas Orchestral Society

Well-Connected L i f e & S t y l e i n C e n t r a l Te x a s

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DID YOU KNOW?

You can read back issues of Tex Appeal Magazine at texappealmag.com.

Log on today to find the current issue and older editions of Tex Appeal.

JOIN the Tex Appeal TEAM

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

Interested candidates may send their resumes and three to five recent stories and/or photographs for consideration to Catherine Hosman at edittexappealmagazine@gmail.com or M. Clare Haefner at chaefner@kdhnews.com.

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Contributors Gail Dillon

Jessa McClure

Valerie L. Valdez

FreD AFFLERBACH

Jessica Pearce

MITCHEL BARRETT

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

has taught theater arts and film classes at Central Texas College in Killeen since 2009. An accomplished writer of stage plays and screenplays, she earned her M.A. in theater arts from Texas State University in 1991.

Val served as a marketing director for architecture firms in Austin for a decade. From 1981 to 1991, she worked as a producer and director of training films for the U.S. Army at Fort Hood and was also a program director at NBC and PBS affiliates for eight years.

MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

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

is a freelance writer, independent songwriter and an award-winning published poet. Widely traveled, she has taught English language and literature overseas in Bangalore, India, and blogged about her cultural experiences. Although raised in Alaska, she is a native-born Texan who now lives in Killeen where she writes for Tex Appeal and the Killeen Daily Herald.

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

KARIN MARKERT

James Paul Stanley

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

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is a part-time freelance writer and fulltime mom to two energetic children.

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

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

TexTalk

neighbors 12 flavours 14 beauty 16 spotlight 18 scene 20 calendar 22 well-fed head 26

Teaching the world Carla Hahn Clardy teaches international students at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton.

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TexTalk neighbors

From international students to her own children, Carla Hahn Clardy invests in the lives of young people

Story by Jessa McClure Photos by Karin Markert

C

lassical music plays in the background inside a large ballroom, where dozens of barely-teenagers stand awkwardly in groups and talk quietly to each other. As the music swells, the boys in the room know they must break away from their friends and ask one of the girls to dance. Although they are slightly shorter than their female counterparts, the girls do not refuse the invitation. They dance somewhat gracefully for the rest of the song and then the whole ritual starts again.

Their above-average etiquette skills are part of what is taught in classes sponsored by the Wildflower Guild. Just weeks ago, Carla Hahn Clardy of Temple, past president of the Guild, was responsible for the 750 young people who come to these classes to learn how to navigate awkward situations, like a first dance, with grace.

“When we say etiquette, we’re really talking about not hurting people’s feelings,” Clardy said. “We’re really just trying to be kind.”

The mother of five said the program is meant to encourage parent involvement and to reinforce the values taught at home.

“We have three dances for the junior cotillion program and multiple dances for the high school program where those traditional values are put into action,” she said. “It’s an awkward situation for all of them, but they learn the skills to properly handle awkward social situations. Generally, parents are teaching this at home. We just give them the opportunity to practice it.”

Although her work with the Wildflower Guild involved teaching junior high and high school students how to handle themselves with grace and kindness in social situations, Clardy’s skills as an instructor of etiquette transferred to her work as an adjunct professor of international students at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. “(The international students) come here with many of the cultural (customs) from their own countries,” she said. “They 12

MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Carla Hahn Clardy is the past president of the Wildflower Guild in Temple and works as an adjunct professor of international students at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton.

are often very different from those in the U.S. So, along with teaching them English, I also sort of teach them etiquette in some ways. I have to teach them the American way of doing things.”

Along with having a passion for teaching her students English and American culture and customs, Clardy also has a pas-

sion for helping these students be successful in their studies.

“Our goal is to get them out in one semester because it’s expensive for them to take this program. They don’t get any sort of scholarship money for taking English, so I put a lot of effort into having them pass their exit exams,” she said. “It’s a mis-

Carla Hahn Clardy dances with her husband, Lt. Col. James Mark Clardy, at the 2015 Wildflower Ball in Temple.

Courtesy photo

sion of mine that they all score the highest they can.”

Clardy wants her students to do well not only because it will get them on their desired career path sooner, but because she takes on a sort of motherly role when they are in her class.

“Even though they’re 25, 30, 35 and some of them have gray hair, they are my babies,” she said.

Clardy said her love of teaching international students came from growing up with a mother who was foreign born and parents who worked in the Foreign Service as diplomats. Not only did this background expose Clardy to people of varying cultures and ethnicities, but it also taught her a lot about etiquette.

“I was raised that you eat whatever is put in front of you because they had to eat everything that was served to them,” she said. “My mother would serve borscht, escargot, steak tartare, and I grew up with absolutely no food prejudices. I’ve raised my kids that way, too.”

Not only has Clardy used meal time at her house to teach her children about proper dinner time etiquette and international cuisine, she also uses her nightly

meal time to connect with her children and show them how much she cares.

“Cooking is a creative outlet for me, but it’s also a way that I can nurture and bond with them,” she said. “I try to have a fresh, new meal every day. It’s sort of a contest I have with myself.”

Not only is the menu important, gathering together as a family is also a top priority for Clardy and her brood.

“There’s something about sharing a communal meal with the people you love most,” she said. “We have a shared meal as a family every night even if it is late at night. We will not eat until we are all assembled together. It’s something that’s very important to us and we’ve done it this way for years.”

With so much going on and so many young people to mentor, it is difficult to imagine how Clardy balances all of her “motherly” roles.

“God did bless me with a lot of energy,” she said. “I also organize and delegate very well and have a husband and kids who are very helpful and take on a lot of the chore load. We have a nice, little efficient machine that gets things done. I truly believe that you find time for what’s a priority.”

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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TexTalk flavours

LaRiv brings Tuscan-style dining to Central Texas

By Catherine Hosman Photos by Mitchel Barrett

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ne of Temple’s newest restaurants, LaRiv Italian Cuisine, is a culinary visit to the Tuscan region of Italy. Owned by Viral Chudasma, also the proprietor of Nolan Creek Winery in Belton, LaRiv (Viral spelled backwards) offers an Italian-inspired dining room and a rustic menu with wild boar as the center of attention.

“Wild boar is a main ingredient because it is the traditional meat in Tuscany,” said Chudasma, who gets her boar from a sustainable ranch in Ingram.

A world traveler, Chudasma said she had dined in some of the most romantic countries in the world. However, Tuscany remains a favorite place, and she visits often to taste new wines and harvest new recipes.

“Italy is a romantic country and everything revolves around food and wine,” she said. “So I thought it was a good decision to open a Tuscan-style restaurant. I love the idea of a two hour dinner time. I don’t rush my customers. The longer my customers sit in here, the happier I am to see them enjoy food, wine and everything in between.”

One of LaRiv’s star menu items is Wild Boar Osso Bucco made with boar shanks. “Shank is a very tough meat and needs to be cooked long and slow, about four hours in a 350 degrees oven,” said this busy mom of one and wife of Staff Sgt. Phil Monge, with the 3rd Cavalry Regiment. “I truly love doing it. The smell of braising for four hours makes me a happy woman.”

Only the best ingredients will do for Chudasma’s menu. Not only is her boar sustainably sourced, she also purchases her produce locally. All sauces, dressings, pastas and pizza dough are made inhouse.

“I’m a firm believer to buy locally and in season,” she said. “If food doesn’t have to travel as much, it always tastes better.”

“We are very unique in this town,” she said, adding that La Riv was named Best Tasting Food in 14th annual Taste 14

MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Owner Viral Chudasma stands in the wine room at LaRiv, an Italian-inspired restaurant in Temple.

“If food doesn’t have to travel as much, it always tastes better.”

— Viral Chudasma

of Central Texas at the Bell County Expo Center on March 24.

If you go LaRiv Italian Cuisine Location: 7410 W. Adams Ave. #160, Temple Call: 254-231-3661 Hours: Closed Mondays; 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Saturday; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday

One of LaRiv’s star menu items is Wild Boar Osso Bucco made with boar shanks.

BRAISED OSSO BUCO 2 wild boar hind shanks (can substitute beef or veal) 1 to 1½ small onions, chopped 2 carrots, chopped 2 stalks of celery 2 garlic cloves, smashed and chopped 1 bay leaf 4 whole black peppercorns 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary ½ teaspoon fresh thyme 1½ cup mushroom stems 1 cup red wine 4 ounces tomato paste ½ teaspoon Kosher salt ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 4 cups chicken stock (can use water) Season and sear shanks ensure they are browned on each side. Remove from pan.

Do not clean pan.

Saute vegetables in same pan until translucent and slightly browned. Add tomato paste and caramelize.

Deglaze with wine and

add remaining ingredients.

Bring to boil and add seared meat. Ensure the meat is submerged. Braise for 4 hours at 350 degrees.

Serve with farro and gremolata.

FARRO 4 ounces Farro 8-10 ounces water Salt to taste Add farro and water to a sauce pan. Bring to boil.

Lower heat and cover.

Cook until farro is tender.

Spread farro on sheet pan and allow to cool.

Gremolata 4 ounces parsley chopped 1-2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 2 lemons zested 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper Salt and pepper to taste Mix all ingredients in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil.

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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TexTalk beauty

Beauty in the Bag

By JESSICA PEARCE

How do you stay beautiful on the go?

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

Monica M. Macy Mother, wife and small business owner

ESSENTIALS she CARRIES Pacifica Tuscan Blood Orange Perfume Roll-on: Being constantly on the go, this helps me feel continuously fresh throughout the day.

Eos Vanilla-mint Lip Balm: I love to have moisturized lips, and I tend to pass it back to my children in the car when I see their lips are dry, too.

Revlon Color Stay Ultimate Suede Lipstick, Muse #005: I recently discovered this lipstick and instantly fell in love. The bright color blends well with my skin and it lasts all day long.

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MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Studio 35 Beauty Nail File: My nails break easily, so I use this to prevent snags.

Hair ties and clip: I have long hair. When I am out at the park with the kids I like to put my hair up to stay cooler.

Coppertone SPF 50 Sunscreen: The sun is bigger in Texas! My little ones and I are outside most of the day, and they need constant protection.

InfectiGuard Kids’ Hand Sanitizer: Got kids, Got germs!

Photographs by KARIN MARKERT

Most valuable TOOL in her BAG

My iPhone: It contains my personal agenda for all the events throughout the day, and is my lifeline to my family, as we are spread out to the four winds. I am a social media aficionado and I also love to take pictures.

Do you have a signature look?

If high heels are considered a beauty product, then that is what I am known for. I like the way they make my legs look.

Do you have a helpful hint?

Eat fresh! I always try to cook fresh and healthy meals for me and my family to enjoy. Eat minimally processed food, and stay away from fast food as much as possible. Drink lots of water; it is essential for healthy skin and body.

Tell us about any other essential items that help make your life easier.

I used to have very expensive sunglasses, but I have lost or had them stolen more times than I can count. Now, I carry cheaper, but stylish sunglasses that I buy at a discount store.

Nothing bothers me more than when my hands are dry, so I use Neutrogena Hand Cream constantly, especially during winter.

Since I am the mom of 4-year-old twins I carry Band-Aids (because you never know when you will need them) and snacks.

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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TexTalk spotlight

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MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

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TexTalk scene

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1. Luis Kianes Jr. attends the Havana Nights concert and fundraiser with, from left, his wife, Christy, his father, Luis Sr., and his mother, Virginia.

2. Erin Shepard performs “All That Jazz.�

3. Bob and Lajuana Carabasi are among the first to hit the dance floor at the Tropicana Lounge during the Havana Nights event.

Photographs by MITCHEL BARRETT 20

MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

scene TexTalk

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Havana Nights raises funds for Temple CAC 5

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4. The band “Buddy Holly and the Crickets� performs during the Variety Show at Havana Nights in Temple.

5. Bob Douglas throws a pair of dice during a game of craps at the casino.

6. Guests sign-in at the Havana Nights Fundraiser at the Temple Cultural and Activities Center.

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TexTalk calendar

Superhero Adaptive Rock Climbing May 1 to May 31 Fee: $ 20 per climber Harker Heights Parks & Recreation Department and Boulders Sport Climbing Center in Harker Heights are teaming up again to offer adaptive climbing for children with special needs in June. Space for this program is extremely limited! Register at the Harker Heights Recreation Center, 307 Miller’s Crossing or online at https://apm.activecommunities.com/ HarkerHeightsPR. For more information, call 254-953-5657.

Boulders Sport Climbing Center 325 Indian Trail Harker Heights To Arms! To Arms!

May 1 to May 30, Tuesdays through Saturdays, noon to 5 p.m.

Historic Weaponry from the Bell County Museum Collection is on display through May 30. Included in the exhibit are a French spy gun from World War II and a 1944 type 44 Japanese carbine. Four interactive areas focus on: weaponry used to hunt for food; weapons used in war; weapons used for sport; and weapons, such as swords, used in leisure activities. Each of these areas includes fun things for children to do, such as dressing up, entering a deer stand, or following a prehistoric hunter on an iPad! Admission is free and guided tours are available. For more

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information, call 254-922-5243 or go to www.bellcountymuseum.org.

Bell County Museum 201 N. Main St. Belton

Annual Gospel Festival at Tablerock May 1, 6 to 9 p.m.

May 2, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Enjoy the best gospel music from all over Texas! Food is available for purchase at the Tablerock Concession Building.

Come and go as you please. Admission is $5 for adults, and $3 for children under 12. For more information, call Jim or Alvalin Woodul at 254-634-4658 or email jimwoodul@aol.com.

Tablerock Amphitheater Royal Street Salado Harker Heights Farmers Market Every Saturday, May 2 to Oct. 31, 8 a.m. to noon.

Come shop with us every Saturday for local produce, baked goods, herbs and much more! For more information visit www.ci.harker-heights.tx.us/parks, or call 254-953-5493.

Seton Medical Center 850 W. Central Texas Expressway Harker Heights Ben Kweller May 2, preshow dinner, 6:30 p.m.; concert, 7:30 p.m.

Ben Kweller is an American singer-

songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who writes folk, country and rock music. He began his solo career in 2001 after the breakup of his band Radish. He has five solo albums, including his latest, “Go Fly a Kite.” Tickets are $22 in advance or $27 at the door.

Cultural Activities Center 3011 N. Third St. Temple

The First United Methodist Church of Belton “4-G” 5k Get up, Get outside, and Get moving for God May 2 Registration 7:45 to 8:15 a.m.

Race begins at 8:30 a.m.

Fees are $35, 13 to adult; $15, ages 6 to 12.

This is a fundraiser for the Body of Christ Community Clinic of Belton.

Race begins in Confederate Park, runs along the Hike & Bike Trail to the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, turns back, and goes through a neighborhood by the Harris Community Center and then back to the Hike & Bike Trail to Confederate Park. Online registration is available online at www.fumcbelton. org. Click on the Events tab. T-shirts will be available, but are limited, so register early.

For more information, call Elizabeth Smith, race coordinator, at 254-939-5703.

Confederate Park 700 Confederate Park Drive Belton

Confederate infantrymen muster and drill in preparation for the battle. Authentic period-perfect attire, accessories and ordnance can be seen at the Battle of Temple Junction.

Schoepf’s Bar-B-Que Free Music Series May 7, 6 to 10 p.m., Mike Ryan with Parker McCollum May 9, 7 to 11 p.m., Randy Rogers Band with Eric Paslay; charity concert benefiting McLane Children’s Hospital Scott & White. Purchase tickets at http:// outhousetickets.com/Event/Event6660/.

May 14, 6 to 10 p.m., Kyle Park with Brett Hendrix May 21, 6 to 10 p.m., Charlie Robison with The Schoepf’s Fab 5 May 28, 6 to 10 p.m., Josh Ward with the Chris Low Band

All concerts are free, except the charity concert. For more information, call 254-939-1151.

Schoepf’s Bar-B-Que Backyard 702 E. Central Ave. Belton

Salado Antique Car Exhibit Antique Car Club May 7 to 9 MG British sports cars will be on display. This free event is open to the public.

For more information, call 800-732-8994.

Stagecoach Inn

401 S. Stagecoach Road Salado

2015 Schoepf’s BBQ Vaquero Golf Classic May 14, 12 to 6 p.m.

This golf tournament with guest host Kyle Park will benefit Variety’s Peaceable Kingdom Retreat Center. For more information, call 254-771-1177.

Wildflower Country Club 4902 Wildflower Lane Temple Continued

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TexTalk calendar

7th Annual Battle of Temple Junction Civil War Re-enactment May 16, gates open 9 a.m.; May 17, gates open 11 a.m.

Civil War history comes alive with full-scale battles, cavalry competitions, military surgeons, demonstrations, artifacts, arts & crafts, food and more. Admission is $5 for adults, and $3 for children 12 and younger.

Tickets are available online at BattleofTempleJunction.com. For more information, call 254-298-5440.

1717 Eberhardt Road Temple 28th Annual Bob Lilly/Randy White Celebrity Golf Classic May 17, 5:30 p.m. dinner with live and silent auction May 18, 7:30 a.m. preregistration, 9 a.m. shotgun start Dallas Cowboys legends Bob Lilly and Randy White host their annual tournament benefiting the Temple Ronald McDonald House. The event begins May 17 with a dinner, live and silent auctions at the Bell County Expo Center. The tournament begins May 18 at The Courses of Clear Creek at Fort Hood. Each golfer receives a goody bag, tournament shirt, a team picture and refreshments on the course. At the end of tournament play, a meal will be provided

by Clem Mikeska Bar-B-Q during the presentation of prizes. Sponsorships are available at levels ranging from $150 to

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$5,000. For more information, call Susan Bolton at 254-770-0910 or email susan@ rmhc-temple.com.

Courses of Clear Creek Battalion Avenue Fort Hood

Green Skies, a world premiere May 22, 8 p.m.

“Green Skies” is a short film from award-winning local filmmakers Jared Smith and Spencer Mathesen.

The film was shot in Bell County and the surrounding areas and funded by members of the Central Texas community. It stars Vincent Hooper, Natalie Pavelek and Ellary Dahl. “Green Skies” is a personal exploration of relationships in the modern age. The event is hosted by Chris Greene, with special musical guest Mikah Young. A Q&A Panel with the cast and crew will immediately follow the screening. Tickets are $8 per person.

Cultural Activities Center 3011 N. Third St. Temple Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony May 23, 9 a.m. parade; 10:30 a.m. ceremony Parade Route: from Harker Heights High School to Harker Heights City Hall on FM 2410 at the Veterans Monument in front of Harker Heights City Hall, 305 Miller’s Crossing.

Bring the family out for activities

to honor those who gave their lives for our country. If you are interested in your organization/business participating in the parade, call 254-953-5465 or go to www. ci.harker-heights.tx.us/parks.

Movie in the Park Temple Parks Foundation presents Disney’s “Frozen” May 25, 6:30 p.m. premovie activities; movie begins at sundown.

The event is free and open to the public. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, family and friends for a family- friendly movie in the park.

Miller Park 1919 N. First St. Temple Memorial Day Farmers Market May 25, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This free event, sponsored by Lone Star Ag Credit, features an educational bee booth, face painting, food vendors, raffles, local farmers produce, jewelry, plants, soap, jams, jerky, wine tastings, art and more. Members of the military will receive a 10 percent discount at the Walker Honey Farm Store. For more information, call 254-983-2899.

Walker Honey Farm 8060 E. U.S. Highway 190 Rogers Email information about on upcoming Central Texas events to edittexappealmagazine@gmail.com.

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TexTalk well-fed head

Wingate’s novel spans two centuries, blending the past with the present

By Catherine Hosman

L

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

Open 7 days a week!

The Shoppes on Main 22 N. Main Street, Salado

254-947-0888

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MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

isa Wingate’s latest novel, “The Story Keeper,” pays homage to all young women who dared to rise above the life into which they were born, to find the life they were destined to live.

For her heroine Jenna Gibbs, who was raised in the poverty of Appalachia amid the background of the Brethren Saints, it meant making the difficult decision that included leaving behind the only home and family she ever knew to create a place for herself in the world.

The 413-page story seems to ebb and flow in parts, but about half way through the book, it’s hard to put down. As the mystery surrounding Jenna Gibbs and her previous life in Appalachia reaches a crescendo, the reader is locked into turning the pages to see what is going to happen next.

Wingate said she chose Appalachia as the setting for her story because it remains a place set apart from society. “It’s off the beaten path; it has so many hiding places and areas where life has not changed,” said Wingate, who hiked the areas of Appalachia she writes about in “The Story Keeper.” “It’s steeped in mystery and discoveries and was the perfect setting for this story.”

Gibbs is a New York book editor who finds a mysterious partial manuscript from the publishers’ slush pile on her desk.

Knowing that manuscripts from the slush pile are taboo, she is confused as to how it got there and reluctant to open it. Her curiosity as a book editor is stronger than the taboo, and she opens the envelope and begins to read the pages.

In these pages she is introduced to Sarra, a young woman of tri-racial heritage (Anglo, African and Native American) in the late 19th century Appalachia, who is the victim of prejudice and abuse, and Rand Champlain, an East Coast-adventurer working his way west. When Champlain stops for a while in the Appalachian wilderness, he comes upon the young girl held captive by her abusers and tries to help her.

In “The Story Keeper,” Wingate traverses

time, weaving in and out of technology-laden 21st century New York and to late 19th century Appalachia. She references today’s technology, such as apps, cellphones and GPS systems and even mentions two popular TV shows, “Pawn Stars” and “Castle.”

As Wingate drifts in and out from the present to the past, she sprinkles in aspects of good over horrendous evil in the previous life of a young person whose identity Gibbs is determined to solve. As additional pages of the manuscript are left for Gibbs, she leaves the comfort of her life in New York and heads back to Appalachia where the past doesn’t just meet the future, it blends with the present. In her quest for the truth, she finds herself face to face with famed author, Evan Hall, who she is sure wrote the manuscript, and returns to the family she left behind. Sometimes the journey leads you back to your roots and the life you tried to forget.

Sarra’s story doesn’t stop with the last page of “The Story Keeper.” In July, Wingate’s novella, “The Sand Castle’s Sister,” continues the journey of Jen Gibbs and Evan Hall as they take Sarra’s story on a book tour that spans continents.

“luxuries for your lucky little ones”

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

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Monica Macy holds a photo of her grandmother, Nonna Maria, who inspired her passion for pasta.

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Rolling in the dough

Native Italian teaches easy pasta making skills

By Valerie L. Valdez Photos by Karin Markert

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he first image that comes to Monica Macy’s mind when she thinks of her “Nonna,” Italian for grandmother, is her hands.

“I remember Nonna Maria’s hands covered with flour working the dough for making pasta. For her, cooking was showing love,” Macy said in her Harker Heights home.

As a girl growing up in Novoledo, Italy, a small town of about 2,000 people, Macy joined her mom and grandmother in the kitchen making fresh pasta and cooking for family, friends and even strangers.

“When a stranger came to Nonna’s door, she would feed him. No one went hungry,” she said.

Macy said pasta is extraordinarily simple to make. It calls for only flour, eggs or water, and salt. “I don’t have recipes from Nonna Maria and my mom, I just watched them and learned that way,” she said.

In 1997, she met Robert Macy, an American soldier stationed in Italy, and they were married six months later. The Macys have four children, ages 4 to 14, and have lived around the world with tours in Germany, Arizona, Washington, Alabama and Fort Hood, and soon they will return to Italy for three years, where she will be close to her family again.

Life as an Army wife and a busy mom has taught Monica Macy to find ways to make delicious, home-cooked meals that don’t take a lot of time.

She checks her children’s activity schedule for the upcoming week, and then plans menus for the family dinners — an important tradition. “We spend time at dinner talking about our day and discussing family issues,” Macy said.

She makes pasta using the same Marcato machine that was a wedding gift from Nonna Maria. On one end, it has pasta rollers to make all kinds of dishes, such as tagliatelle, spaghetti and lasagna. A dial determines the pasta’s thickness as a handle cranks the dough through the rollers.

Monica Macy and former cooking student Ang McGriff hang up freshly cut pasta to dry.

Lending a hand with the pasta making was Ang McGriff, a former student from one of Macy’s cooking classes.

After the dough was made, it was time to start the rolling. Macy set the dial on “1” then put the dough in the machine cranking it through the rollers. Then she folded the dough over and rolled it through the machine, each time it got longer, thinner and softer. Macy repeated the process of folding and rolling the dough, then turned the reins over to McGriff, who struggled at first, but got the hang of it.

“All of her food looks and smells great, and tastes even better,” McGriff said.

One of the best features of homemade pasta is you can tailor it to include other vegetables, such as sun-dried tomatoes or spinach, but first cook and drain the spinach before adding it to the dough.

For vegan diets, Macy suggested using water instead of eggs and, if you can’t eat gluten, substitute gluten-free flour for white, unbleached flour.

Macy cut the long ribbon of dough in Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Monica Macy holds up a newly cut batch of pasta as she prepares to place it on a wood rack to dry.

“For working moms who want to have some extra pasta on hand, put it into plastic bags to freeze. ... The dough will last for several months at least and be as good as when it was fresh.”

— Monica Macy

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MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

-half, so each section was about 12 inches in length, and then ran the dough through the cutter where it was sliced into perfect, golden ribbons. Next, she draped the ribbons over a wooden noodle rack.

“For working moms who want to have some extra pasta on hand, put it into plastic bags to freeze and use later for quick meals,” she said. “The dough will last for several months at least and be as good as when it was fresh.”

Like all great cooks, she knows valuable secrets, like adding some kosher salt to a pot of boiling water to reduce the heat before putting in the pasta, because it only takes a few minutes to cook.

The sauce was equally simple to make with tomatoes, honey goat cheese and fresh basil.

Macy halved 10 to 12 small grape tomatoes, and coated the bottom of a skillet with extra virgin olive oil. Once it was hot, she added the tomatoes, two teaspoons of honey goat cheese with about one-half cup of fresh basil and stirred the sauce until the cheese melted.

By then the pasta was cooked, but she tasted it to make certain, and then drained it in a colander in the sink before gently tossing it in the sauce. She explained that this way the pasta wouldn’t stick together.

After a final toss, Macy poured the pasta onto a platter, and grated fresh Parmesan cheese on top. Perfecto!

Macy was always eager to share her passion for cooking, so she started her own business in 2014, “Smells Good! What’s Cooking?” where she taught monthly cooking lessons for coffee groups.

At the same time, she began making and selling her own pesto sauces with fresh herbs and vegetables that she bought from a local farmer.

Besides traditional basil, she made pesto from broccoli, eggplant, black olives and parsley, and sold the 6-ounce containers at the farmer’s market. Her upcoming move to Italy will soon force her to stop the lessons and sauce-making.

In less than one hour, she made fresh pasta and sauce from scratch with common, inexpensive ingredients to feed her family a delicious meal.

Macy is proud of the family traditions she carries on from her mother and Nonna Maria. Now, she’s passing it on to her children as they learn how to cook.

“Food brings families together,” she said.

Monica Macy demonstrates how to make homemade pasta to former cooking student, Ang McGriff.

ABOVE: Macy rolls out a sheet of pasta. AT LEFT: Macy grates fresh Parmesan cheese on hre finished dish.

Monica Macy’s Pasta Dough 1 cup of unbleached all-purpose white flour per person 1 egg per person, organic or free range is best, but you can substitute 1 cup of water Salt Put the flour on the counter and make a small nest in the middle.

Add the eggs or water and a pinch of salt to the flour, then knead the ingredients with your hands into a dough. If it is too moist, add a bit of flour. If it is too dry, add some water.

Put the dough in the pasta machine and crank it through the rollers.

Fold it several times before rolling it through the machine again.

Adjust the dial setting as the dough gets thinner.

Cut the long ribbon of dough into smaller sections, about 12 inches in length, which are easier to handle. Then roll each section through the slicer, cutting the dough into ribbons.

Lay the ribbons of dough flat on a clean linen towel dusted with flour, or hang on a wooden pasta rack or twirl it into a pasta nest.

Bring a pot of water to a boil then add some kosher salt to reduce the heat.

Cook the pasta for several minutes until al dente.

Drain the pasta and serve with the sauce of your choice.

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Time to unwind

Kristin Bate and her husband John Bate watch a movie at their home in Temple. The have an at-home date night during the week to unwind.

Busy moms can usually find a few minutes to relax Story by Jessa McClure • Photographs by JULIE NABOURS, ERIC J. SHELTON and JAMES PAUL STANLEY 32

MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

After a long day, Jennifer Jones enjoys working on DIY decorating projects and planning her daughter’s birthday parties.

T

he pasta’s boiling over, the kids are asking you to settle a spirited dispute over whose turn it is to have the remote, and you just got another email from your boss. Being a mom can be overwhelming and exhausting. That’s why it is important for every family matriarch to take a moment for herself.

Here are some ways local moms are stepping back from the chaos of the daily grind and taking a little “me” time.

Killeen ISD kindergarten teacher Kristin Bate’s days are filled with corralling and instructing dozens of busy 5- and 6-year-old bodies and caring for her own children when she returns home after a long day.

She has to be creative when it comes to finding time for herself.

“If I only have five minutes to myself, I pray, listen to music at my desk or simply shut my eyes and rest for a moment,” Bate said.

“My hubby and I do a date night a couple of times a week. We rent a movie, order a meal in, play a game, have another couple over or go sit outside with a drink.”

— Kristin Bate

While Bate finds time to unwind at her teacher’s desk during the day, finding time to unwind at home can be difficult.

The mom of two active boys says she relaxes after her kids are asleep for the night.

“My hubby and I do a date night a couple of times a week,” she said. “We rent

a movie, order a meal in, play a game, have another couple over or go sit outside with a drink.”

Bate said the key to really feeling refreshed is to find some time to get out and do something that’s just for you. Her favorite ways to escape are exercising, watching movies in bed or going out to eat with friends.

“It’s really tough working full-time and caring for a family. My advice would be to find someone to watch the kids a night a week and get out of the house,” she said.

CRAFT TIME Jennifer Jones, a small-business owner and mother of one, said it is important to step away from work, and even from motherly duties (if only for a night), to be a better mommy.

“I used to pull all-nighters to get everything done, but since I have been pregnant, Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Elizabeth Webb reads a book at her home in Temple. To carve out time to relax at the end of the day, she reads for a while after her daughter is in bed.

I have refused to do that, because I know it is not healthy for me or the baby,” she said. “I have just had to remember what my true priorities are — my family and myself. It is really important to set limits for yourself.”

After a long day, Jones enjoys working on DIY decorating projects and planning her daughter’s birthday parties.

“Having a creative project on my plate helps me to relax because it gives me something fun to focus on (rather than the daily grind),” she said. “I think it is a form of escapism to focus on something a little frivolous and just focus on making something pretty.”

Aside from decorating her home and creating birthday décor, Jones also likes to get out of the house every once in a while and take time for herself.

“It is so helpful to get together with other moms for a dessert or coffee date to talk and realize we are all in this together,” she said. “It re-energizes me and gives me the encouragement I need for the rest of the week.”

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MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

“God, out of all the universe of ‘perfect mothers,’ chose you. So, you are perfectly equipped for your little one’s needs.”

— Elizabeth Webb

CURL UP WITH A BOOK One of Jones’ “mom friends,” Elizabeth Webb, has a busy life taking care of a toddler, working a full-time job as the assistant registrar at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and volunteering at animal rescue organizations. Webb said that although her schedule is hectic, it is important to remember that taking time for yourself can help you be the mom you were created to be.

When her daughter has drifted off to sleep, Webb likes to relax with a good book and with a cat her in lap. “(Reading) allows me to be transported to another world, even for a brief moment, and slowly unwind,” she said. “I try to take at least 10 to 15 minutes each night to read and forget about the day’s worries.”

Webb said that even if you are feeling bogged down by the rigors of daily life, know that you were created to be a mother for your child.

“God, out of all the universe of ‘perfect mothers,’ chose you,” she said. “So, you are perfectly equipped for your little one’s needs.”

CUT YOURSELF SOME SLACK Megan Gill, secretary for International Student Services at UMHB and mother of one, said it is easy to let her “mommy guilt” keep her from enjoying time to herself. But, she knows that when she takes some “me” time, she feels refreshed and better able to handle the rigors of raising a toddler.

“Whether that means having a lunch out with the girls, getting a haircut or do-

Megan Gill of Salado spends time relaxing while shopping in Salado.

ing a little shopping, I try to sneak in time to myself here and there, even if it is on my lunch hour,” she said.

Gill said simply cutting yourself some slack is important to finding balance and enjoying unwinding time.

“Take a moment to appreciate how you constantly put others in front of yourself, how you always have 500 things to juggle and somehow keep all of those balls in

the air, and how you exhibit patience with these small monsters we love so dearly,” she said.

“So, when that inescapable mommy guilt sneaks up on you when you just want to get a haircut or have a bath without being interrupted, let it remind you that you’re a good mother who thinks about her children first; which means it’s OK to have a little time to yourself.”

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Unconditional love

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MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Jen Hall receives a kiss from her son Ken.

Jen and Kyle Hall create family of their dreams through adoption Story by JESSA MCCLURE Photographs by JULIE NABOURS

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ornings are filled with laughter and healthy snacks as all six members of the Hall family crowd around the kitchen island in their Harker Heights home, all talking at the same time. The only pause in their chatter is to watch Annagrace, the youngest of their four adopted children, twirl around in a dress her mother handsewn for a special occasion. “I see you, Annagracey,” Jen Hall said, smiling down at her little girl. “Can you spin? That’s a good girl.”

From the outside, the Hall family’s home seems very much like the rest on the block. They go to Bible study, visit the local frozen yogurt shop every Wednesday and enjoy sitting and reading books together. While the Halls might seem like an ordinary family, they became a family in an extraordinary way.

Twelve years ago, Jen and Kyle Hall met and married in Virginia where Jen, who was an officer in the Navy, was stationed. Jen had a daughter from a previous relationship, and Kyle instantly adapted to being a father to the then 10-year-old little girl. “(Kyle) has been her father since then.

He calls her ‘our’ daughter,” Jen Hall said.

“He doesn’t tell people the variation in the relationship. I don’t think I’ve ever heard him tell anyone, that’s my stepdaughter.

He feels like he’s full-on.”

Although the Halls were happy to be parenting Jen’s first child, they desired to have children of their own; however, they soon found out that having children naturally would not be an option.

“Adoption was not a part of our plan,” Jen said. “But when we found out we couldn’t have children, then it became a part of our plan.”

Jen resigned from the Navy and took a civilian position in the Army. The couple moved back to her home state of Texas and the two began seeking out adoption opportunities through the help of an adoption facilitator.

“It was the job of the facilitator to look nationwide and let us know about situations we might be interested in,” she said. “When she called us about the twins, we were very fortunate that we were one

Evelyn Hall hugs her younger sister Annagrace.

of five couples who were very interested.

Because we were already living in Texas, we sort of had better footing.”

The twins, who are now eight, were born at 24 weeks gestation, making their future uncertain.

“The facilitator called and said there are these twins. The girl is perfectly fine, although very premature, but the boy has some serious medical problems,” Jen said.

Even though the situation seemed grim for the little boy, the Halls decided to go and meet the babies they hoped to adopt.

“The neonatologist said he would

probably never walk or talk. He might be mentally retarded or have severe cerebral palsy,” she said.

Despite the uncertainty of what the baby boy’s future might look like, the Halls decided to go through with the adoption and be there for the son they named Ian. To the amazement of his doctors, Ian continued to defy the odds and develop normally.

“We said, ‘What? He can roll over? He can sit? He can crawl?’” Jen said. “He had to have a lot of therapy, but he was actually ahead of our daughter on a lot of his Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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ABOVE: Annagrace, Evelyn and Ian Hall share a snack in the kitchen of their Harker Heights home. BELOW: Kyle Hall prepares to put Annagrace down for a nap.

milestones, which we never expected. They told us we would be lucky if he wasn’t too severely handicapped, and now we laugh and say he would climb the house if we let him.”

Soon, the doctor’s visits and therapy sessions were a thing of the past and the Halls settled into life with their new daughter, whom they named Evelyn, and their miraculous little boy.

“We kind of both believed we were probably done,” Jen said.

The couple then started feeling as though God wanted them to become foster parents. After some training and some routine health inspections, they received their first placement — a 2-month-old boy named Ken. “We thought, very naively, that Ken would just go home. They tell you the whole point is to take care of these children in the interim so their parents can be appropriately ready to take care of them.

So, we just never thought that he would stay,” she said. “But then Ken never left. It was a huge blessing. We officially adopted him right around his second birthday.”

Before Ken’s adoption could be finalized, the Halls received a call from Ken’s 38

MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

case worker that would change their lives forever. “The case worker said that Ken’s birth mom had just given birth to a little baby girl who was 2 days old,” Jen said.

“Kyle and I always discuss everything, but I didn’t even ask him. I just said yes, bring her over here. When I hung up the phone

I went running into Kyle’s office saying, ‘We have a girl! A baby’s coming.’ It was just amazing.”

Soon the case worker arrived with a baby girl the couple named Annagrace. It was a name they’d picked out long before there were any children to name. Today, the

Jen and Kyle Hall adopted four children, from left, 2-year-old Annagrace, 8-year-old twins Evelyn and Ian and 4-year-old Ken. BELOW: Jen Hall reads with Ken, Evelyn and Ian.

Halls share their home with twin 8-year-olds, a 4-year-old and a 2-year-old who are full of boundless energy and love for one another.

While they love the dynamic of having four children, their house is often filled with even more children placed in their care through the foster care system.

“It’s a great opportunity to serve others,” Kyle Hall said. “Our kids basically think of it as friends who come to visit for a while. But they have also learned to share their things and to help out when they can.

Evelyn has been very helpful to Jen during the day — helping the foster kids adjust to the daily routine and grabbing cups and diapers when Jen has her hands full.”

The Hall kids each have an extra bed in their room just in case a child comes to “visit” for a while. Jen makes sure each foster child has clothes to wear when they are placed in their home, even if it means sewing clothing by hand.

“One day I could be setting up a crib and the next day I could be taking down a bed and putting it in the attic to make room,” Kyle said. “We try to be prepared for any situation.”

Although their hands are full with four spirited children and a varying number of foster children, the Halls hope to adopt again. “I joke that Jen wants to get all the kids adopted at one time,” Kyle said.

“We seem to stretch it out. We have been in diapers for eight years.”

Despite the rigors of daily life dealing

with diapers, skinned knees and hurt feelings, Jen feels blessed to be a mother to her four adopted children and those she mothers for a season.

“Being a mom means that God, for whatever reason, trusted me to raise all these little people to be more like Him and less like the world,” she said.

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MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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

If you are buying, selling or building a home, HOMESPEC Real Estate Inspections will provide essential information.

Founded in 1989 by Brad Phillips, HOMESPEC has been providing real estate, construction and FHA inspections to buyers and sellers for more than 25 years. Kelly Hankins joined HOMESPEC in 1998; HOMESPEC has four full-time inspectors covering all of Central Texas.

“Our goal is to provide exceptional service to our customers who are purchasing an existing home or commercial property, or building a new home or commercial property. We provide them with information about the property so that they can make informed purchasing decisions,” Phillips said.

“Instead of having just one person complete an inspection, HOMESPEC will typically put multiple inspectors on the job, which speeds up the inspection process,” Phillips said. “We have many repeat customers that use us purchase after purchase. HOMESPEC’s inspectors are involved in continuing education programs so they are up to date on the latest products, building methods and codes.”

Brad Phillips and Kelly Hankins

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

Sara Irvine

Sojourn Real Estate | 1915 W. Avenue M, Temple | 254-760-0007 or 254-771-1211 sarairvinerealtor.com or sojournrealestate.com Sara Irvine, broker at Sojourn Real Estate, is a native of Bell County committed to serving buyers, sellers and the community.

Sara’s background in accounting and administration provided a solid foundation when she began her real estate career in 1983. It enabled her to help her clients compare prices and make financing decisions.

She places great value on her relationships with friends, customers and clients.

Sara, who has a Graduate Realtors Institute (GRI) designation, served as president of the Temple-Belton Board of Realtors in 1993 and 2001. She was Realtor of the Year in 1990, 1991 and 2008. She served six years as a Texas Association of Realtors director. She is on the TAR Professional Standards and Member Benefit Committee. She also serves on the Baylor Scott & White Safe Kids Mid-Texas advisory board.

Sara and her husband, Michael, live in Temple and attend Temple Bible Church. She enjoys cooking, reading and traveling.

Sara Irvine, broker

“I am associated with the greatest company and best sales associates ever,” Sara said.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Chris Lockett, RE/MAX Temple-Belton 4016 South 31st Street, Temple 254-760-7276 or 254-771-3633 chrislockett.remaxtexas.com

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned veteran of the real estate process, let Chris Lockett be the one you trust. There are many moving parts in a real estate transaction, so having an experienced agent by your side will help ease the anxiety of buying/selling a home.

Chris was born and raised in Temple and graduated from Temple High School. He attended Concordia University at Austin and graduated with a BBA in Finance. After college, he worked in the banking/ financial industry for over six years, ending his banking career as a manager of a large regional bank in Austin. His prior banking experience has helped Chris make the transition into real estate. He has a solid financial background for advising clients in the home buying/selling process.

Chris Lockett, REALTOR®

Since becoming an agent, Chris achieved Executive Club status with Re/Max in 2012 and became a member of the 100% club in 2013 and 2014. He is an active board member, serving as an advocate for the local real estate board during state conventions. Chris has learned that excellent service yields both long-lasting client and friend relationships. He is committed to working for you to provide the information you need to make an educated decision as you buy/sell your home.

If you need assistance in the real estate market, give Chris a call or or email at: chris.lockett@hotmail.com.

Sue Lockett, Owner RE/MAX Temple-Belton

4016 South 31st Suite 200, Temple 254-771-3633 | suelockett.remax-texas.com Sue Lockett has had an interest in real estate most of her life. In 1992, she decided to make it a career – a career that has been very successful.

Sue worked for another national real estate company for 10 years, immersing herself in the training and learning the finer points of the business. She joined RE/MAX Temple-Belton in 2002 as a sales associate and quickly achieved her goal of being Top Producer and a member of the RE/MAX 100 percent Club and Hall of Fame.

“When the RE/MAX Temple-Belton franchise became available in 2008, my husband and I purchased the company,” Sue said. “We have been leaders in real estate sales for the past five years in Bell County and surrounding areas. We have grown to 21 active sales agents along with our support team.”

Sue Lockett, Owner/REALTOR®

Sales for RE/MAX Temple-Belton set another record in 2014. “We have enjoyed the success of many years with our sales exceeding the previous year.” Sue said the prospects for 2015 are “very good. We appreciate the opportunity of serving our community.” The office specializes in selling single family homes, relocation properties, bank-owned and foreclosure properties. Sue and the agents work to stay updated on the changing real estate industry regulations by attending seminars and training. “Our goal is to serve our clients and the community by keeping informed of what is happening in the community and within our field,” Sue said. “As a growing company, we are always looking for top quality agents. Come join us.”

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MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Margaret Pleasant, RE/MAX Temple-Belton

4016 South 31st Street, Suite 200, Temple | 254-760-3131 | margaretpleasant.remaxtexas.com Margaret Pleasant, is a mother of three grown children, grandmother to three grandchildren and has been married to her husband, Carl, for 35 years. She has been in real estate for over 11 years. A member of the Temple-Belton Board of Realtors, where she has held the position of director, officer and served on numerous committees. She was Realtor of the Year in 2005.

Margaret is a member of the Texas Association of Realtors, National Association of Realtors and Temple Chamber of Commerce. She is a graduate of the REALTOR® institute and holds a designation of Accredited Buyer’s Representative and Certified Military Relocation Specialist.

Margaret is known for her compassionate, professional and personalized service. Her goal as a REALTOR® is to give excellent customer service so her clients will feel confident in knowing that they are working with a Christian, honest, pleasant, professional, hardworking, enthusiastic and well-organized agent.

Margaret really enjoys and loves her job, and it shows through her work. Whether buying or selling, give Margaret a call!

Margaret Pleasant, REALTOR®

Terry Lockett Property Management

4016 South 31st Street, Suite 200, Temple | 254-913-3518 | lockettrentals.com Terry Lockett’s goal is to help his clients sleep at night. With more than 15 years of property management experience, Terry understands what it takes to allow that to happen.

A licensed REALTOR®, Terry currently manages more than 50 properties in Bell County. He has a list of reliable companies that he always keeps by his side in case something happens at one of the rental properties. “This allows you to sleep at night, knowing the renters will be calling me with issues and not you,” Terry tells the owners.

Terry offers owners a menu of professional services, including trash clean up and make ready, tenant screening, scheduled maintenance programs, local handyman services, lawn maintenance services, hands-on management, accurate and timely cash management, and errors and omissions insurance.

“Property management isn’t an easy job,” Terry said. “Problems arise every day, so having someone dedicated to your property is worth it.”

Terry Lockett, Owner/Agent

Marilyn Burres, Sojourn Real Estate

1915 West Avenue M, Temple | 254-760-9795 or 254-771-1211 | sojournrealestate.com In 2002, after 25 years of teaching children with special needs and disadvantaged children, mostly at the junior high level, Marilyn Burres decided to leave education and start a new career in real estate. It was something she had always wanted to do and felt her background had prepared her well for this career change. She also wanted to learn more about the process of buying and/or selling, with the intent of helping others make their moves as easy as possible and educating them on what to expect.

Although she mainly lists homes or has buyers for residential properties, she has closed on land and commercial sales, too. She is an Accredited Buyer’s Representative, a Certified Residential Specialist and a Seniors Real Estate Specialist, which qualifies her to help buyers, sellers and older adults who may be transitioning into new living situations. As an Army wife of 20 years, she has a special affection for military families, older adults and those with special needs.

Marilyn Burres, REALTOR®, ABR, CRS, SRES

“I strive to be the best I can be, whether in personal matters or in my profession,” Marilyn said. “I am honest with friends and customers when examining their real estate needs and capabilities. I’m conservative, yet realistic in my approach with buyers and sellers, and my advice is based on careful analysis and comparisons of the information available. I am dedicated to serving my clients’ best interests and needs.”

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Ryan Smith, The Ryan Smith Home Selling Team

Ryan Smith, REALTOR®

RE/MAX Temple-Belton 4016 South 31st Street, Suite 200, Temple 254-598-4055 | RyanSmithHomes.com

How does a young combat veteran from Indiana become one of the top real estate professionals in Temple, Texas?

After five years on active duty with the U.S. Army and two deployments to the Middle East, Ryan looked for a career in Central Texas that would fulfill his desire to be challenged mentally and physically. The real estate profession seemed to fit the bill while also allowing him to build new relationships and meet new people.

As a young real estate agent in a small town, Ryan was met with the typical barriers to success. Most people already knew an agent and new clients were not easy to find. Although most people would find rejection from potential clients to be discouraging, he met the challenge with courage and optimism.

“Being in the military taught me how to work, and work hard. So, when I was met with a few obstacles entering a new profession, perseverance was never really a problem.” Not only has Ryan gained the trust of innumerable new clients, he has become one of the top agents in the Temple/Belton area, and one of the top 100 RE/MAX Agents in the United States.

When asked how Ryan became so successful so early in his career, he confidently answers, “Focus.” He is constantly perfecting his craft in the real estate market, and he has done this by learning from other successes in various industries.

One particular example that impacted Ryan was an interview with a successful surgeon. “This surgeon was No. 1 in his field, nationally known and respected. When asked how he did this, he replied, ‘I focused on the key priorities that had to be done at a very high level, and I became

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the very best in the world at that. Everything else, I have accomplished with the help of excellent professionals around me to give our patients a world-class experience.’ This is really the model I’ve tried to implement when designing my real estate team.”

Ryan’s current team allows each of his members to excel individually, and to work together toward a common goal of a world-class experience for their clients. Ryan believes his model will “set the new standard for customer service for the real estate market in Temple.” So far, this appears to be true, as Ryan has been voted “the people’s choice” by Temple Daily Telegram and he continues to have unrivaled client reviews.

To find out how Ryan and his team can help you sell your home for the most money in today’s real estate market or help you find the perfect home at the best price, give them a call!

“

I believe that my model will set the new standard for customer service for the real estate market in Temple.

Ryan Smith, REALTOR®

”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Lisa Jay & Co.

Real Estate Advisors Vista Real Estate 7348 W. Adams, Suite 700, Temple 254-493-2101 | JayRealtors.com As a local real estate advisor, Lisa Jay’s business centers on her clients. “Quality vs. Quantity” is the focus.

Lisa uses the latest technology to sell homes fast and for top dollar. “We keep up on the latest news, marketing and trends through continued education to make sure that you are receiving the best real estate advice available,” she said. “Bare minimum is not in our vocabulary.”

Lisa strives to give each of her clients the individualized service they deserve. “Watching out for their best interests, we will do everything in our power as a Texas Realtor to make their home sale or purchase go as smoothly as possible,” Lisa said. “We believe in moving and changing with the market and an aggressive marketing plan that is sure to get one’s home noticed.”

Lisa Jay, Real Estate Advisor

Lisa is a member of the Fort Hood, Temple-Belton and the Austin Board of Realtors, e-Pro, Certified New Home Specialist and an Accredited Luxury Home Specialist.

“I absolutely LOVE a good challenge,” Lisa said. “With the ever-changing market, I enjoy thinking outside the box to help my clients get the most out of their home purchase or sale. My business is based on referrals.

“Thank you to my past clients, friends and other real estate professionals for sending referrals to me,” Lisa said.

Ashby Group, REALTORS®

3011 N. Main Street, Belton 254-721-1944, 254-913-3792 | hbsheppard.com Jimmy and Garrett Ashby have often sat on the buyer and seller sides of the table during a real estate transaction. That gives them a perspective that helps them understand the needs of their clients.

The father and son formed Ashby Group Realtors in early 2014. They say they saw “a need in the local market for Realtors who cared about the best interests of their clients over the need to just ‘close the deal.’” They sell residential, farm and ranch, and commercial properties.

“We are a father-son team, so we are able to help each other and also better serve our clients. Two minds are always better than one,” they said. Jimmy Ashby and his wife, Melanie, have nine children, including three who are adopted. He worked at Wilsonart for 11 years before becoming a selfemployed small-business owner for the last 20 years. He bought lake homes, fixed them up and Brokered by HB Sheppard Real Estate, Jimmy and Garrett Ashby, REALTORS® sold them. He received his real estate license after donating a kidney a year ago. Garrett Ashby also became a Realtor in early 2014. Although he is relatively new to the business, he has extensive knowledge of the local market. “Real estate is not only my career, but a passion as well. My wife and I have spent many a Sunday afternoon driving around looking at houses, getting ideas and dreaming of what is to come. I have a young family with a bright future ahead. I love what I do and it shows in my work.”

Jimmy and Garrett work to make the real estate transaction go as smooth as possible. “Buying or selling your next home will be one of the biggest endeavors you will likely ever face, and you will want someone who has your best interest at heart heading up that transaction,” Garrett said.

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Julius Price, Realty Executives 2710 S Fort Hood St, Killeen 254-768-9318 | realtyexecutives.com

As a Realtor representing a buyer, my duties include helping the client find the best property which meets the clients’ needs, negotiating the best price, and navigating the transaction through escrow while protecting the client’s best interests.

Conversely, when representing the seller, my duties are similar, coupled with conducting a comparable market analysis (CMA), marketing the property, finding a qualified buyer and obtaining the best price for the seller. In both instances, I typically handle negotiations between the buyer and seller while keeping uppermost in mind the fiduciary duties I have towards the client I am representing.

Julius Price, Realtor®

Purifoy & Company Insurance

14 South 9th Street, Temple | 254.773.6844 | purifoyinsurance.com Purifoy & Company Insurance, located in downtown Temple, has been dedicated to serving clients in the Central Texas area for over 80 years!

The employees of Purifoy & Company Insurance have over 120 years of combined experience. They strive to provide you with the most comprehensive insurance needs from global providers at the most competitive prices. They take pride in providing personalized insurance for all your needs, including business, home, auto and life insurance.

Our lives are constantly changing. Let Purifoy & Company Insurance help you during those times.

Purifoy & Company, your Trusted Choice!

Mack Purifoy, Owner

Joan Wright, Ann Spoor, Becky Judkins

Sojourn Real Estate | 1915 W. Avenue M, Temple | sojournrealestate.com 254-760-2746 (Joan); 254-721-8558 (Ann); 254-338-0692 (Becky) joanwrighttexashomes.com

annspoortexasrealtor.com

beckyjudkinstexasforeverhomes.com

Joan Wright, Ann Spoor and Becky Judkins are three Realtors with Sojourn Real Estate who are focused on helping residential buyers and sellers.

Joan has lived in Bell County all her life, moving from Temple to Salado more than 20 years ago. Joan retired from Temple ISD and started her career in real estate in 2002. Joan enjoys real estate because it gives her the opportunity to make lifelong friends.

Ann is a graduate of Sam Houston State University and has been in the Temple-Belton area since 1978. She has worked for BISD and owned her own awards business. After selling her business, she attained her real estate license and has since enjoyed serving many homebuyers and sellers.

Becky is a retired Army wife of 23 years who was born and raised in Maine. She worked in a home decor boutique shop in Salado for 14 years. She is now fulfilling her dreams in real estate and is always available to assist in the journey of buying or selling your home.

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The Rodney Dunn Company Agents

Rodney Dunn Company Inc. 1400 South 31st Street, Temple 254-774-7355 | rodneydunn.com

Armed with a degree in marketing from Abilene Christian University, Rodney Dunn began his real estate career in 1972 in Abilene. In 1974, he moved to Temple, where he served as vice president of Elbert Aldrich Inc. Realtors. In 1992, Rodney joined the Patrick Mullins Real Estate Company as an associate broker, and in 1997, he acquired the company. By 2000, he had merged several other real estate companies into the Rodney Dunn Company Inc. The company’s annual sales have gone from approximately $20 million to nearly $70 million since 1997. The original core group of agents still works together every day. Combined with the addition of other agents over the years, it truly is a family. The Rodney Dunn Company is an independent real estate firm that’s not associated with a national franchise. The agents, all long-time residents, have more than 250 years of combined experience.

More than half of them have a broker’s license, and most have additional professional designations. They are the experts on Central Texas real estate.

The company works to build relationships that extend past the closing table. “We want our clients to feel comfortable asking us everything from what lawn service to call to what dry cleaner to use. Our goal has never been to be a top producing company, but to be the nicest, instead,” Dunn said. “Because of this approach, we have been very successful. The quality of our work has not diminished due to the quantity of transactions in which we participate. However, the quantity of transactions continue to rise, due to the quality of the work we provide.”

That quality has resulted in many referrals and repeat clients.

“We not only experience repeat clients, but we experience multi-generational clients as well,” Dunn said. “It is an amazing experience to find homes for three or four generations of one family.”

Rodney Dunn Company, its associate brokers and agents are heavily involved in the Temple-Belton Board of Realtors. Several have served as the board’s president and have won numerous “Realtor of the Year” awards. The company has won the Temple Daily Telegram’s Readers Choice Award for 11 years.

“Our agents represent a cross section of the community and are involved in everything from Rotary Clubs, Lions Clubs, Kiwanis Clubs, Daughters of the American Revolution, Temple and Belton school districts, local chambers and numerous others,” said Rodney Dunn, who is a past chairman of Temple’s Planning and Zoning Commission. Danny Dunn, who joined the company in 2000, is in his second term as mayor of Temple.

The Rodney Dunn Company believes in reinvesting in the community, contributing to numerous philanthropies, including local education foundations, local arts venues such as the Cultural Activities Center, McLane Children’s Hospital, Scott & White, Historic Preservation League of Temple and many other deserving organizations.

“

We continue to give back so that the citizens of Central Texas can have the best quality of life anywhere.

”

Rodney Dunn, owner

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The Mahler Group

RE/MAX Temple-Belton 4016 S. 31st St., Ste 200, Temple 254-760-3489 | mahler-group.com The Mahler Group of RE/MAX Temple-Belton exists to make the process of buying and selling real estate more profitable, less stressful and more fun. With over 15 years of experience, Mark Mahler truly enjoys serving clients’ interests and developing long-term, meaningful relationships.

With a strong focus on residential properties, the Mahler Group also offers expertise on land/farm and ranch sales and investment properties. We take the time to understand your objectives and do our best to exceed your expectations. Whether it’s selling your property or helping you purchase a new home, we have the experience and the skill to make it a success.

Transitioning from one home to the next can be a tricky process. We specialize in making multiple real estate transactions smoother and less stressful Mark Mahler, REALTOR® for those we serve. From market positioning and sales negotiating, to home searching and logistics, we enjoy orchestrating these moves. We have the expertise to protect you from contracting errors and we will fight hard for your interests in all negotiations.

It has been our privilege to help thousands of customers during our years of service in Central Texas. This year, we look forward to making many new friends and helping you accomplish your real estate goals. With a proven track record of service and a genuine concern for each family we serve, we would love to have you as our next client.

Angelique Sirois Corretti, New Homes Market Center 4201 Stan Schlueter Lp., # C Killeen 254-245-9060 | fthoodtxrealestateangel.com “Your Real Estate Angel” Angelique’s greatest passion is helping people.

She is known for her determination, receptivity to client requests and her detail-oriented approach.

Her friendliness, honesty, innovative thinking and quality work go above and beyond her title.

Angelique began her career specializing in VA loans as a buyer’s agent, new build agent and relocation specialist. Along with her extensive experience in these roles, she also handles Tex Vet, FHA, conventional, short sale and foreclosure Angelique Sirois Corretti, REALTOR® sales. By using technology along with video presentations, she assists many of her clients with building or buying homes before they arrive in Texas. In addition, she has been complimented on her photography skills, showcasing properties at their best.

Angelique works to make every transaction seamless, marketing properties for rapid results. She also includes many complimentary services that other Realtors charge a fee for. Her business hours don’t end at 5 p.m.; she also works after hours and on weekends to accommodate the varied schedules of her clients.

Based on her experience relocating to Central Texas as a military spouse, Angelique understands the challenges of buying a home in an unfamiliar area, especially when coupled with a PCS move and time constraints. She recognizes the importance of having a Realtor act as a representative and advocate in these situations. As your Realtor, she will keep your best interests in mind, providing you with as much information as possible about the area, the buying and selling process and your options as a client. Check out her Zillow reviews.

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The Pelham Group – Larry and Monique Pelham

Larry and Monique Pelham, co-founders

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Texas Realty 2005 Birdcreek Drive, Suite 210, Temple 254-702-3572 | ThePelhamGroup.com | Team@ThePelhamGroup.com Serving the Central Texas area, The Pelham Group consists of the husband-and-wife duo, Larry and Monique Pelham. With a combined experience of more than 13 years, the Pelhams know what it takes to satisfy a client’s needs in today’s market.

Larry, decending from a lineage of real estate professionals, moved to Texas in 2008. After more than 10 years serving in the Army, he and Monique, a native Texan, founded The Pelham Group in January 2012.

Larry and Monique work tirelessly for their buyers and sellers from day one. They both hold the title of Certified Negotiation Expert, guaranteeing top results where it counts the most. With a “zero excuses” mentality, their focus on solutions instead of problems has created a solid foundation on which to succeed.

Three additional licensed agents and numerous support staff are utilized, ensuring that every client gets the service and attention they deserve.

Leveraging a team to achieve results has landed The Pelham Group in the top tier in earnings, evidenced by their membership in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chairman’s Circle Gold.

They also hold the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Luxury Collection Specialist designation, awarded for selling numerous properties in the top 10 percent of the market.

Along with a vibrant team comes a sense of community and giving back. Monique is a member of Altrusa International Temple, an organization committed to partnership and service in the community. She also volunteers with the Realtor Outreach

Committee in an effort to educate local residents on the ins-andouts of home selling.

With a continued commitment to education, innovation and leading edge practices, The Pelham Group ensures their customers receive the premier service they deserve while leaving all inefficiencies at the door. Your Experience Matters™ rings true and is woven into the fabric of all decisions made when buying or selling a home with The Pelham Group.

“We have such a unique opportunity to be a part of a family’s life,” Monique said. “This is their home. We feel very honored and privileged that they’re choosing us to help them make that decision.”

Don’t leave one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make up to chance. Contact The Pelham Group and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your interests are in the hands of experienced professionals. Give them a call to learn how they can assist in your real estate needs; they love to talk real estate.

“

We have such a unique opportunity to be a part of a family’s life.

”

Monique Pelham, co-founder

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Ryan Hodge and Family

Ryan Hodge – First Texas Brokerage

80 South Main Street, Salado; 5293 S. 31st St., Temple 254-947-5577 (Salado); 254-773-4400 (Temple) | efirsttexas.com Ryan Hodge joined his father, Glenn Hodge, and the family-owned business, First Texas Brokerage in 1999, and has since become one the area’s top Realtors.

of Bell County. Larry brings more than 30 years of real estate, construction and insurance experience and provides excellent advice on real-estate transactions.

Over the last 15 years, Ryan has been named the Realtor of the Year, served as president of the Temple-Belton Board of Realtors and has been on the board of directors of several community service groups. Ryan is passionate about helping both buyers and sellers make a smooth, seamless transaction.

The Ryan Hodge Team specializes in homes, estates and ranch sales in Central Texas. As a Certified Luxury Home Specialist and a member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, the team has made a mark on Central Texas luxury real estate. Their attention to detail, their ability to write complex offers, and their ability to market properties stands out above the rest.

Now with two locations, one in Salado and one in Temple, First Texas Brokerage can help even more clients and provide even better service.

First Texas Brokerage Company has a talented group of agents, including Alan Persky, Angie Neas, Brenda Hill, Cher Hislop, Donna Gregory, Dottie Shirley, Glenn Hodge, Jennifer Kasner, Larry Wentrcek, Melinda Dunahoo, Mona Fullmer, Ryan Hodge, Sharon Schlaefer and Teresa McCoy. Ryan also created The Ryan Hodge Team. He believes a team approach offers clients better service, more advice, and most importantly, greater results. The Ryan Hodge Team is built to be the right size to enhance communication with a personal touch.

The Ryan Hodge Team has been personally selected to include Angie Neas and Larry Wentrcek.

Angie brings vast design knowledge and client relations. She is also highly involved in community service, including serving currently as chair of the Family Advisory Council at McLane Children’s Scott & White Hospital and past board member of the Junior League 50

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Ryan with First Texas Brokerage Company also does marketing for numerous subdivisions, including the new upscale community called Mystic River along the banks of the Leon River and the Creekside Meadow Subdivision on Salado Creek.

When choosing an agent to represent you and your property, make sure you choose one who understands the value of first impressions. We are here to help, so give us a call today at our Salado or Temple office and put one of our experts to work for you.

“

I am passionate about helping both buyers and sellers make a smooth, seamless transaction.

Ryan Hodge

”

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Shine Team Realtors

Jean Shine, Realtor

®

100 W. Central Texas Expressway, Ste. 302, Harker Heights 254-690-4321 | ShineTeam.com “Positively Outrageous Service” My name is Jean Shine, a licensed Realtor since the early 80s. I began learning about the power of a real estate team in the early 90s and formed the Shine Team. Since then, it has steadily grown to our current operation.

My military family moved here in the 1950s and fell in love with the people of Central Texas. Even as children my siblings and I knew this was our forever home. Both my sister & I married longtime Bell County natives and settled in this community.

I became a Realtor after being unimpressed with a real estate transaction for one of my own homes. I thought to myself, “I can do a better job and make this a more positive experience for buyers and sellers.” I did get my license and made it my goal to always put customers first.

The Shine Team was the first real estate team in the area, building a core group of people with the same dedication to our mission, beginning with family members and then “adopting” others team members as needed.

As my team grew, I issued them this directive: we must give positively outrageous customer service to each customer as if they are our only customer, replicating this service with every transaction. As a result, I believe we have succeeded in raising the standard for real estate professionals in the area.

we would want to be treated. Our customers enjoy the ability to get in direct contact with knowledgeable, professional team members. Our team has a huge commitment to community service as well, participating in many good works on behalf of the community, who enjoy running into us at these events.

Every team member is a specialist in one particular transaction, including working with buyers and sellers, marketing and closing. The result is that in any particular phase of a purchase or sale, there is an expert to provide guidance along the way. Our team also knows Central Texas, serving eight towns with family and team members in each one of them.

Our management team is comprised of our family members as well.

Like me, they are always seeking education to further our entire team’s success. We never stop learning and creating, and most of us are on call 24/7 for the team. Shine Team has been nationally recognized every year since 2001 for sales volume by the Wall Street Journal and Coldwell Banker.

Our office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, with weekend appointments available.

Our mission is to have a profound impact on our buyers’ and sellers’ lives by being experts in our field and treating every client the way that TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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The Covington Family: Barrett, Dave, Terri and Jim

Covington Real Estate Inc.

2324 N. Main Street, Belton 254-939-3800 (sales) 254-933-1010 (rentals) Covingtonsells.com; Covingtonrents.com Family, faith and community involvement guide Terri Covington and Covington Real Estate Inc. in Belton.

Encouraged by family and mentors, Covington opened the agency in 2003. She said the company strives “to offer the highest quality service and promote excellent relationships with clients, agents and the community.”

“We are family based and faith based,” Covington said. “Prayer is an important part of decision making and support of agents and clients.” The agency helps buyers and sellers in residential, land and commercial sales. It also offers residential property management and rental services.

“We are experts for Central Texas real estate,” Covington said.

“Whether you are looking at homes for sale or good Texas land, buying or selling, we would like to represent you. Our experienced real estate agents live, work and volunteer in their communities, making them familiar with neighborhoods, schools, growth and quality of life resources.”

Covington is focused on providing the best results and service in the industry. “We listen carefully to understand your real estate goals and work hard to create solutions that make sense for you.

Whether you are new to the market or an experienced investor, we have the expertise, proven track record, and resources to help you achieve your real estate goals,” she said. “We personally assist our clients with the mortgage loan process, inspections, surveys, zoning issues, building plans, and a number of other property specific details which make up a real estate transaction. With regard to listings, we are sensitive to the seller’s motivation to sell,

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and try to present a property in the best possible way to achieve the best results. Attention to details, feedback, and creative ways of marketing make a difference. As property managers, we work very hard to keep well maintained properties, treat tenants with respect, and offer our landlords good communication and accounting practices. We consider our representation of clients serious business and strive for excellence.”

The relationship between agents and clients often lasts long after the sale, Covington said. “By the time clients have gone through a real estate transaction they have become personal friends with the Realtor that has been with them every step of the way.”

Community involvement is important to Covington and helps the company serve clients. “Every agent is very involved in the community and schools. We do our best to be aware of changes in neighborhoods, roads, schools and economy. “We financially and physically support local churches, schools and chambers of commerce to help strengthen the quality of life we appreciate.”

Covington Real Estate has the experience and expertise to help you with what could be your largest lifetime investment.

“

Buying or selling a home should be entrusted to a professional.

We would be honored to represent you.

Terri Covington, Owner

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Richard L. Parker, Realtor® Keller Williams Realty 1801 S. Mopac Expressway, #100 Austin 512-679-5567 | richardparker.yourkwagent.com EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED.

“More Than Just Real Estate” A home is not a home because of its room dimensions or the color of the walls. It is about how you feel when you walk through the front door and the way you can instantly envision your life unfolding there. This is about more than real estate; it is about your life and your dreams.

Richard L. Parker utilizes the latest technologies, market research and business strategies to exceed your expectations. More importantly, he listens, finding solutions that are tailored to you. Mr. Parker takes a different approach to real estate, one that is built on adding a personal touch, creating win-win deals and generating positive results for his clients.

“I began my real estate practice in 2013 because Richard L. Parker, REALTOR® I love to see that big smile on my clients’ faces when they receive the keys to their new home in their hands,” Mr. Parker said. Providing real estate services for Bell, Williamson, Travis and Coryell counties, he added, “My mission is to make every family’s dream come true by getting them in their new home.”

Mr. Parker listens to his clients, placing their needs before his own. He works hard to build a great rapport with them to ensure they feel comfortable with him as their agent. He said, “Whether my client is selling or buying a home, I give over and above 100% top-notch customer service.”

TEXAS-SIZE SAVINGS Temple Office Don Murphy

Gary Schmiedekamp

Jessie George

Davis Ford

LUTCF Agency Manager

LUTCF Agent

Agent

Agent

1341 Marlandwood Rd. Temple, TX 76502 254.778.4741 Killeen Office 4200 E Stan Schlueter Loop Killeen, TX 76542 254.690.7111

Gary M. Lynd

Toby Brooks

LaDeena Boyd

Agent

Agent

Agent, Killeen

Art Williams, II

Steve Giniewicz

Sofia Johnson

Pam Stahr

Agent, Killeen

Agent

Agent

Agent

Decius Tasby Agent, Killeen

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Samara Elledge pours out some lemon essential oil as she gets ready to apply it to her face.

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Naturally good skincare

By Gail Dillon Photos by Mitchel Barrett

K

illeen resident Samara Elledge is drawn to natural elements in her life. It is a philosophy that she applies to eating, exercise, motherhood and skin care. Last year Elledge drew on that philosophy. She started making her own beauty products because she said it is more economical.

Plus, it assures you know what is in your products.

“Your skin is your largest organ, so whatever you put onto your skin goes straight into your body,” she said.

The ingredients she uses are natural and easy to find. Many of her concoctions include essential oils, which she began to research after her 2-year-old daughter Cora was born. “You find (children) are resilient, but they’re so tender and fresh and you don’t want to mess them up,” said Elledge, 38, an army wife and mom. “What really got us into essential oils is that she was sick and we didn’t want to give her any type of (conventional) medicine.”

She and her husband Matt learned that Cora’s congestion eased with natural remedies such as peppermint, lavender and eucalyptus. Having a baby caused other changes, as well, especially in Samara’s skin. “When Cora was born my hormones went crazy and I could not find a face wash or a face moisturizer that did not make me break out,” she said. “I was so frustrated. I just went back to the basics and I studied up on the oil-cleansing method — just using oil to wash your face.”

This method involves blending castor oil with either sunflower or coconut oil and massaging it into your skin, followed by using steam and hot water to remove dirt from the pores. “All of the impurities and stuff come out and leave your face clean,” she said.

After cleansing, she uses a blend of essential oils as her moisturizer and has been pleased with the results. “I have a lot fewer breakouts now, and my face feels much softer, but not greasy.” As for figuring out which natural products suit other types of skin, she advises experimenting.

“Just kind of play with it based on how you feel and how your skin reacts to that,” she said. Elledge said the Internet is full of information about natural beauty products. “Research shouldn’t be daunting,” she said. “It’s all out there. It’s all at our fingertips.

It’s not like we have to go to the library anymore.”

One of the first things she dabbled with was making her own sugar scrub. Elledge said her blend costs less than commercial options. Besides being economical, she said sugar scrub makes a “great gift” and is easy to prepare. She also makes her own bath bombs, which she said are far cheaper than store-bought, though perhaps not as colorful since she doesn’t use dyes.

“The store’s might be prettier, but mine looks pretty darn good,” Elledge said. “I just grew up knowing that less is more, I guess, and better. And the closer you are to nature with things, the better.”

In addition to her artisan skin care products, Elledge still manages to teach her fitness classes, run her small business, ‘Kor Fit & Living Well,’ and maintain a healthy lifestyle for herself and

Samara Elledge adds light olive oil to the bowl of sugar as she makes a sugar scrub.

her family. She said moderation has always served her well.

“With everything, I love balance,” she said. “So I am not strict on one certain method, one certain diet.”

However, she advocates eating as close to the source as possible, explaining that eating a strawberry is far more nutritious than having strawberry jam. “If it’s got 15 compound words and it doesn’t make any sense to you, it probably shouldn’t be going into your body,” she said, adding that she does not deny herself. “I like delicious things,” she said, admitting she occasionally indulges in pizza, fried chicken and ice cream.

As a self-proclaimed “Army brat,” Elledge calls California home and described her home life as “granola.”

“We were a “crunchy family,” she said. “We made our own yogurt; we made our own peanut butter.”

Laughing, she added that Birkenstocks were the standard footwear for her parents and three older sisters. She followed in her father and two sister’s sandaled footsteps and attended West Point, then served nearly 10 years as an Army military policewoman. “I clearly remember the Gulf War happening and I remember thinking, ‘You know what? I have to do my part to serve my country,’” she said.

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Since then, she has become a certified yoga and fitness instructor, teaching vinyasa flow, body pump, aqua aerobics and other lifestyle classes in addition to making her own skin care products. As much as she loves creating good things for herself, she enjoys sharing her knowledge even more.

“Living a holistic and natural life is my passion,” she said. “And I love teaching others — I love to share how to do that through all the various avenues: eating well, living well and taking care of your body.”

Natural Face Serum One night’s worth 1 drop frankincense 1 drop lavender 1 drop myrrh One month’s worth 25 drops frankincense 20 drops lavender 15 drops myrrh Mix in a dark glass jar with a dropper top. Drop 2-3 drops onto your hand and apply to face and neck after washing.

I use this in the evening after washing using the oil cleansing method.

Oil Cleansing Facial Cleanser Recipe Oil Cleanse Ratios 1/3 castor oil 1/3 fractionated coconut oil 1/3 sunflower oil For about a month’s worth mix 4 ounces of each of the oils together.

Using the ratios above, mix the oils together in a container with an easy pour spout.

Pour a quarter-sized amount of cleanser in one hand. Rub both hands together to warm the cleanser. Gently massage cleanser into face and neck.

Spend several minutes doing this to work the cleanser into the pores.

Allow the oil to sit for 5 to 10 minutes for a facial/masque affect.

Soak a washcloth in hot water and gently press the cloth to your face.

The steam will help open your pores.

Continue pressing the cloth over your face until it no longer feels oily. The oil cleanses, and the oil and impurities that have been in your pores will be removed.

Apply facial serum onto gently dried face and neck.

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A collection of Samara Elledge’s various facial and body creams, bath bombs and oils.

This procedure will remove your makeup and mascara as well, so no additional steps are necessary. You can do this daily or just a few days a week. If your face is dry or oily, you can play with the oil combinations — more castor oil or less.

The oil we use to cleanse the skin dissolves the oil and impurities that are stuck in our pores. Then we steam to open the pores, and we remove the oil and the impurities.

Lemony Sugar Scrub 1 cup white sugar 1/2 cup olive oil 20 drops lemon essential oil 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind Mix ingredients and store in a tightly covered glass jar. The scrub will last approximately two months. You can use various types of essential oils here to evoke different emotions. For example, lemon is uplifting and lavender is relaxing.

Lavender Bath Bomb 1/2 cup baking soda 2 teaspoons cream of tartar 10-15 drops essential oil 2 teaspoons V6 oil blend or sweet almond oil

Water in a spray bottle 1 tablespoon dried lavender (optional) Sift baking soda and cream of tartar into a mixing bowl and whisk together.

Add in essential oils and V6 Oil. Blend and whisk together. Add in dried lavender (optional) and whisk together. Spray a few sprays of water over the top and mix.

Continue with water and mixing until the blend just forms and holds together in clumps. Spoon the mixture and press into molds and allow to dry overnight.

Body Whip Recipe 1/3 cup unrefined shea butter 1/3 cup cold-pressed coconut oil 1/4 cup sweet almond oil 12 drops essential oil (Lavender, or a calming essential oil blend) With an electric hand mixer, whip shea butter and coconut oil together until fluffy. Add in almond oil and essential oil and mix until incorporated.

Store product in an airtight container and store in a cool, dark location. It will last for two to three months when stored correctly. It may also be used as a shaving cream for legs or face and as a body moisturizer, like a thick lotion.

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TexPets

Labor of love

By Jessica Pearce Photos courtesy of Sheri Hemrick

M

anda Butler, animal care manager of mammals at the Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, said she is a natural mother to anyone or anything, especially anything helpless and defenseless. She said her mothering tendencies were pushed to the limit in 2011 when she became a surrogate mother to two Sumatran tiger cubs less than an hour after their birth.

When the cubs’ mother, Maharani, had reached her due date, Butler said she and her staff were all on “birth watch,” monitoring her closely for behavioral changes that indicated she was ready to deliver. While watching the tiger through closed-circuit TV, she noticed Maharani become very nervous and agitated as she went into labor. When Indah, her first female cub was born, Butler said that Maharani’s initial reaction to the first cub was not good.

“She was hesitant about the noises her cub was making. Sometimes first-time moms don’t react well,” she said. “Maharani was ‘plucking’ at the cub with tiny bites, and would not lay down with it.

She didn’t carry it properly by the nape of the neck, either.”

Butler and her staff watched Maharani pick the female cub up, place her in another stall, and leave her, a sure indicator that the cub was not wanted. They immediately intervened to care for her and discovered that she had a small puncture wound on her neck, which required even more attention and care. “We were concerned about the cub’s breathing, too,” she said.

Knowing a second cub was on its way, Butler left two stalls open in case Maharani rejected it also. Fourteen hours later, she delivered her second cub, which Maharani also left in a stall by himself. On their next monitoring cycle, the staff found the second cub who was crying for attention, and Butler quickly stepped in with her staff to care for him.

Butler said that Maharani may have rejected her cubs because of the “inherent stressors” in any zoo environment, especially for first-time moms. “Though zoo staff does everything to mitigate these stressors, there are sometimes unknown triggers that are unpreventable,” she said.

Butler explained that in such cases as these, the staff will care for the cubs with the intent of reintroducing them to their mother once they are stable. Because Indah had the puncture wound that required constant care, she decided to keep Bugara out with her as well so that they could be cared for at the same time.

“There are a lot of us here who have a heart for animals,” Butler said. “It takes more than a village to raise two baby tiger cubs.”

She and four other keepers gave them 24-hour round-the-clock care, rotating shifts to stay with the cubs overnight. “Me and one other keeper did three straight days of bottle feeding, rotating every four hours,” she said. Butler explained that not every keeper had the training to do the bottle feeding at the time. “The cubs’ sucking instinct wasn’t very strong, and we didn’t want them to aspirate (choke on too much milk).”

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MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Manda Butler, animal care manager of mammals at the Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, said her mothering tendencies were pushed to the limit when she became a surrogate mother to two Sumatran tiger cubs. BELOW: Indah and Bugara, now full-grown Sumatran tigers, reside at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo in Fort Wayne, Ind.

watch. At two and a half weeks, Butler and her staff members still rotated sleeping with the cubs to give them their regular four-hour feedings, but they began to gradually increase the time between feedings. “A couple of us found it was easier to take the night shift with them,” she said. “I did midnight to 9 a.m. I would go home and be with my family, take a nap, then go do it all over again.”

When the cubs were two months old, Butler introduced them to the tiger exhibit where Maharani and the cubs’ father lived. Maharani continued to ignore her cubs, though the father indicated

interest in them by “chuffing at them, a sound almost like a purr, but more like a whoosh,” said Butler. Although the cubs could not be placed back with Maharani, they still became well socialized to both the adult tigers and to human zoo visitors.

At four months old, the cubs were moved to a night barn where they were allowed to become more independent, sleeping through the night without the staff present. At six months, Butler and her staff slowly began to let go of their young wards. They began training the cubs through a wire mesh, gradually distancing themselves from the cubs so they could survive on their own. They also began rotating the cubs in the tiger exhibit for visitors to watch.

Although Butler and her staff reared the cubs using the best scientific methods, she said, “It is always better for cubs to be raised by their natural mother whenever possible. We don’t advocate hand rearing. Nobody can be as good a mom as the female tiger herself can be. These are powerful, formidable animals; those instincts are there forever. There is a lot of scientific training required to foster their natural traits while managing them in captivity.”

While Butler is passionate about educating the public on animal husbandry and species conservation, she admitted, “I have my own 12-year-old son, but the cubs began to feel like my own children. As much as I tried not to anthropomorphize them, I still celebrated their milestones, like when they took their first steps and when they were weaned. Indah was always independent; she liked to explore, but Bugara stuck by my side. He was my ‘big boy.’ You can’t help but fall in love with them.”

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TexFit

Women find time for water fitness

By Valerie L. Valdez Photos by Mitchel Barrett

I

“

t’s noodle time” is not a common phrase heard in a swimming pool, but when Kathleen McDonald says it, all of her water divas, and a few divos, know what she means — more fun and challenging exercises in the water. Five times a week, McDonald, a certified water instructor, takes her students through workout routines in the Water Spin or Water Fitness classes at Central Texas College’s swimming pool.

Kathleen Nesbitt, 56, fits the spin class into her schedule on Friday evening after work, and started taking the water fitness class about two years ago to help recover from knee surgery.

“My day may have been stressful but this class takes away all that stress, plus it has lowered my blood pressure and I’ve lost some weight,” Nesbitt said.

The Water Spin class is like riding a bike under water, but without the bike, yet it still provides a workout that students find more difficult than they imagined.

“I’ve had life guards tell me that they thought it was easy, until they got in the water to do it,” McDonald said.

That is because the natural power of water offers 12 times the resistance of air.

The water spin class is an aerobic workout that tones legs, buttocks, abdomen and arms with a warm-up followed by 30 to 40 -minutes of water cycling and then a cool down.

No swimming skills are necessary but students must be comfortable using a pool noodle or jog belt to suspend their body in water up to six feet deep. It is a safe environment with flotation equipment and fellow students nearby all under McDonald’s watchful eye.

After a warm up of gentle stretches and crossing the width of the pool, McDonald mixed her instructions with jokes and words of encouragement as the students worked through various routines that included hip circles, marching in the water and walking around the inside of the pool several times.

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Kathleen McDonald, center, Aqua Aerobics Instructor at Central Texas College, gives instructions on the various stretches and exercises performed by the class.

Some students held the noodles in front or placed one between their legs to help maintain balance. Each exercise was

done slowly, but got more difficult as the routines built upon the next one.

Tawn Seabrook, 40, an Army captain

Marietta Mutter laughs as she talks and jokes with others attending the Aqua Aerobics Class at Central Texas College in Killeen.

Water Spin and Water Fitness classes offer multiple health benefits, such as the water’s massaging action helps people with injuries recover quicker. in medical logistics, recently signed up for the class, because it works well with her active job and lifestyle.

“I wanted to get back into the pool to try to start a fitness program that is more focused on low impact activity, unlike jogging, which is hard on knee joints,” Seabrook said.

One of the “repeat offenders,” a term McDonald playfully uses for students who attend classes on a regular basis, is Belton resident Marietta Mutter, 67. She took the class after hip replacement surgery two years ago, losing about 10 pounds, and attends four classes per week.

“It has done wonders for me, and Kat’s personality makes it fun as we get a great workout,” Mutter said.

The other class McDonald teaches is Water Fitness, which develops strength and flexibility while improving posture

and body awareness. Its exercises combine pilates and yoga movements modified for the water. Included are shallow water exercises, wall exercises and suspended flotation stretches, but no swimming skills are necessary.

Some students, such as Gwendolyn James, 46, a mother of three, takes the spin and fitness classes to help with weight loss and arthritis. She started about six weeks ago and prefers the Saturday morning class, getting the day started in the right way.

“At first, I was achy but my arthritis is better and I’ll continue to take the class as long as they have it,” James said.

A CTC employee, Elaine Riley gets off work and drives to the pool to attend classes twice a week. She is another “repeat offender” with four years as a student, and besides weight loss and increased flexibility, the class helps with her diabetes.

“The exercises have kept my numbers in line, so it’s been really beneficial for me in many ways,” Riley said.

Both classes offer multiple health benefits, such as the water’s massaging action helps people with injuries recover quicker.

When compared to traditional land exercises, the heart rate is reduced 10 to 15 beats per minute in the water so you can work out harder and longer. The impact is not harsh on the joints and the water creates a soothing, de-stressed environment.

McDonald is certified by the U.S. Water Fitness Association and has conducted the classes for seven years.

After being a water fitness student for two years and losing over 50 pounds, Coach Reineer Schelert, a kinesiology professor at CTC, encouraged McDonald to take the plunge, and she became a water fitness instructor in 2008.

McDonald said that you don’t need to buy expensive equipment or go to a crowded, noisy gym in order to get in shape. “It’s you in the water getting a great, fun workout that makes you feel better, stronger and stay healthier.”

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Mother’s Day Vintage, Antique, Unique!

Happy Mother’s Day

Unique gifts for Mom. Antique, vintage, one of a kind items.

Popular jewelry making classes include beading, wire wrapping, metalsmithing and more. Gift certificates available. Come out and delight in our smorgasbord of beads!

2nd Street Emporium

8 S. 2nd St., Temple 254.770.0088 2ndstreetemporium.com

Bead Bistro Gourmet Beadery

2501 S. W.S. Young, Ste 311, Killeen 254-432-5307 | bead-bistro.com

FarmHouse Fresh

Moms love graduates

- Made in Frisco, TX - Up to 99% natural ingredients, are vegan and gluten free!

From devotionals to stadium totes...Baylor, Texas A&M, University of Texas, Texas Tech, Texas State, LSU

Best Wishes Gifts

Best Wishes Gifts

Body Care Products

1401 S. 31st St., Temple Pecan Plaza | 254-773-4438

1401 S. 31st St., Temple Pecan Plaza | 254-773-4438

Make Mom be.YOU.tiful

We deliver smiles

Treat yourself and your mother on your special day here at Be.YOU.tiful Salon.

You can’t go wrong with beautiful fresh flowers.

Be.YOU.tiful Salon

106 N. Main St., Belton 254-939-7499 Follow us on Instagram

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MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

BJ’s Flower Shop, Inc.

415 N. Main St., Belton 254-939-6462 bjsflowershop.com

is

Sunday

Your Mom...

a fun Mom... a beautiful Mom... the perfect Mom! Gifts for your special Mom.

Brickwood

boutique. gifts. interiors 2603 Thornton Lane, Ste 125, Temple | 254-771-2050

Shop with our local stores and boutiques to help find that perfect gift for Mom.

facebook.com/brickwoodboutique

Lady Primrose Lady Primrose beauty products are a perfect gift for your mother, grandmother, or any special lady in your life! Available in handsoap, lotion, bath gel, body powder and more.

WOW MOM Every Mom’s a star.

Celebrate her, Spoil her!

Callie’s Boutique

Dietz-McLean Optical

Impress her with

Pamper Mom

something nice and comfortable, just in time for Mother’s Day.

Let me take care of ALL her hair needs!

1401 S. 31st St., Temple Pecan Plaza | 254-770-0511 calliesboutique.net

Diva Chicks Boutique

121 N. East St., Suite A DowntownBelton facebook.com/divachicsboutique

3020 S. 31st St., Temple 254-773-5041 dmoptical.com

Kim Hay

5297 S. 31st St., Temple Salons at Tuscan Square 254-913-9509

Help keep her beautiful

Give and be happy

Nerium AD reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture, aging or sun damage, and enlarged pores. It is also 100% organic.

Handcrafted jewelry, silver spoon rings and other shiny things!

Made in the USA

Melissa Petitt,

My Giving Tree Gift Shop & Gallery

Nerium International Independant Brand Partner mpetitt.theneriumlook.com

121 N East St., Suite B, Belton 254-939-TREE mygivingtree.net

Gifts with pizazz

Put a little pop in Mom’s day

Come see all the beautiful spring colors! Mention this ad for 10% off one regularly priced item through May.

Pizazz Gifts and Décor

Many sizes - more flavors.

Gormet popcorn at it’s best.

Pop-Abilities

Inside Perry Office Plus 214 E. Central Ave. Downtown Belton perryop.com/pizazz

7349 Honeysuckle, Ste 120, Temple 254-295-0996 pop-abilities.com

Homestyle cooking

Ears to you

Weekly specials, fresh made sandwiches, salads, homemade desserts, and casseroles to go by owners Chef Ellen Romans and Beth Stokes.

Rosebud Eatery & Country Store

April 24th - May 10th, Purchase any Brighton necklace & bracelet and you can choose any pair of Brighton earrings FREE!

The ShoeBox

(Next to State Farm in Windmill Plaza)

254-780-5511

3111 S. 31st St., Ste 3195 Temple Mall 254-773-4560

Collegiate Benches

Nora Fleming Ceramics

Hogs ∙ OSU ∙ BAMA MSU ∙ LSU ∙ More Cast iron letters ∙ Steel tube frame ∙ 1yr limited warranty

The perfect Mother’s Day gift because it keeps on giving! Buy one serving dish and you can decorate with a variety of minis.

HWY 317 & Adams Ave, Temple

Temple Hearth & Home 608 S. 1st St., Temple

4 64

OCTOBER 2013778-4666 TEX APPEAL MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Zooty’s

1401 S. 31st St., Temple Pecan Plaza | 254-770-0904 zootystemple.com

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Gentleman rancher

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Baker raises grass-fed beef on Belton ranch Story by Catherine Hosman Photos by Julie Nabours and James PAUL Stanley

I

t’s six o’clock in the morning and retired physician Dudley Baker is getting ready for the day’s work on his sprawling 450-acre ranch in Belton where he raises 100 percent grass-fed beef.

He pours his first cup of coffee before meeting with his ranch manager, John Chappell, a retired rodeo champion cowboy.

“We divide the responsibilities,” said Baker, who admits to sometimes working a 12-hour day. “In addition to going into town to buy seed and purchase supplies, I work with John on the ranch work. We are always trying to improve the land, ponds and tanks, build shade for the cows and harvest our chemical-free organic grasses.”

While dawn crests over the ranch, home to 93 certified Black Angus cattle, the doctor and the cowboy plan their day.

Their first order of business is to inspect the cattle.

Minutes after their meeting, Chappell mounts his horse and begins traversing the pastures, inspecting the cattle for any injuries, health issues or entanglement in wire. Slowly he begins to move the herd to one of the 27 grazing pastures that harvest a variety of Texas native grasses from the Blackland Prairie area that are free of any synthetic fertilizer, herbicide, insecticide or GMO products.

“We are always planning for grasses for the seasons: spring, summer, fall and winter,” Baker said. “Rye and wheat are growing now and they provide nitrogen for the spring and summer grasses.”

Other seasonal organic grasses and legumes they grow include sprangle top, buffalo, blue stem, coastal Bermuda and hay grazer so they can produce their own organic hay, alfalfa and clovers.

“Each of the grasses has a different taste,” Chappell added. “The cattle know what they want and need.”

The Baker Ranch is a self-sustaining organic ranch and has the equipment to fix whatever might go wrong on the acreage from wood cutting to welding fences. They don’t need big machines to till the pastures because the cattle do all the work.

“Their hooves crack the soil, they lay

Dudley Baker checks on plants in the greenhouse at the ranch.

the seeds and fertilize the ground,” Baker said. “The cattle do the work of three expensive machines.”

Baker Ranch is Animal Welfare Approved and Go Texan, which Baker said has stricter guidelines than the USDA Organic stamp. Being AWA, Baker said a representative can drop in at any time to confirm no synthetic products are being used.

A change of direction Baker, 78, grew up in a working class family in Shreveport, La., where he worked in his father’s glass company. He admits to not knowing what he wanted to be when he grew up; he just knew he didn’t want to be indoors.

“I wanted to live and work in the country,” he said.

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His dream of an open life was put on hold during his teenage years as he battled polio. It wouldn’t be until his freshman year of college that he decided to go into medicine. “I looked back at all the wonderful people who helped me recover from polio, who got me back in the spirit,” he said.

It was this decision that would eventually give him the resources to live his dream of becoming a rancher.

An aspiring baseball player, Baker quit after two years on the team at Southern Methodist University to focus on his science labs and get ready for premed.

“When I told my father I wanted to go into medicine, he said I was stretching the bounds,” said Baker, adding that neither of his parents were able to attend college.

Baker earned his medical degree in 1962 and specialized in obstetrics and gynecology and the sub-specialty of gynecologic oncology. His career spanned 50 years with the first 10 years of his career working in U.S. Army hospitals, including three years in Germany and five years at Walter Reed General Hospital in Washington, D.C. He joined Scott & White Clinic and Hospital in 1971 and chaired the OB-GYN department for 30 years. He also served as the chief medical officer at Scott & White Round Rock, southern perimeter. He said he chose OB-GYN because the specialty offered a range of care for patients from treating a patient for cancer in the morning to delivering babies in the afternoon.

“I loved OB-GYN because you do it all; primary care, deliver babies, surgery — every aspect of medicine,” he said, adding that he has delivered as many as 2,000 babies in his career. “There were no disappointments. The joys far outweighed any disappointments.”

Baker Ranch ranch manager John Chappell feeds the Black Angus yearlings alfalfa cubes to supplement their grassfeeding during the winter months.

When he retired at 75, he turned his attention full-time to his ranch.

A better beef The clear blue skies, bright sunshine and emerald green grass were a stark contrast to the recent bone-chilling, damp weather that dominated the Central Texas area this winter. But even on the grayest day, there is a beauty to the overcast landscape of the Baker Ranch. Winter finally gave way to spring and now the Black Angus cattle and calves dot the rolling green pastures while birds fly overhead playing on the air currents. From a distance comes the sound of cattle mooing their good

Certified 100 percent grass-fed beef The Baker Ranch’s 100 percent grass-fed beef program has been inspected and certified by the Animal Welfare Approval Board and the Texas Department of Agriculture insuring that no GMO products, herbicides, insecticides or hormones have been used and that all cattle are consistently cared for and processed in a humane manner.

According to the Stockman Grass Farmer, the goal is to produce healthy, nutritious meat that tastes good. Important health factors include: • Changing the fat rations of Omega-6 (bad) to Omega-3 (good) from 20:1 to 2:1.

• Providing pure, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) produced only in the rumen of cattle.

• Enhancing significantly Vitamin A & E and other antioxidants.

For more information on Dr. Baker’s Grassfed Beef, go to www.agrilicious. org/Dr-Bakers-Grassfed-Beef or www.eatwild.com/products/texas.html.

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morning, and far on the horizon resting on a grassy knoll is a small army of alpacas that stand sentinel to the cattle, keeping carnivorous predators at bay.

It’s early spring and the cattle still get an organic alfalfa supplement to support their grazing. “Hail, hurry, hurry, hail,” Chappell breaks the silence, calling out to the surrounding cows and calves, to come feast on the alfalfa pellets. Standing in the middle of the cattle, still thick with winter fur, Chappell pours the pellets on the ground, which the animals eagerly eat.

“We started out with one bull and 15 registered bred Black Angus in 2009,” Baker said. “Ten more bred cows and a second bull were added in 2010 to continue the cow/calf operation.”

Baker’s dream of working outdoors began in 1977 when he bought the ranch, barely eight years into his medical career.

In 1979 he built his home and moved his family to the ranch.

“I always loved being outside and I wanted to live in the country,” said Baker, who shares his life with wife Vivian, a former superintendent of Belton ISD. They have five children, nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. “I wanted to farm, ranch and explore healthy environment, ground and food.”

As a physician, Baker said he was concerned about the high incidence of cancer

Dr. Dudley Baker, left, and ranch manager John Chappell are seen at Baker Ranch in Belton. BELOW: Baker spreads alfalfa pellets for his cattle.

and other diseases that increased over the years and began studying the effects of organically grown foods. In his blog, he writes about the importance of 100 percent grassfed beef, citing that “cows are ruminants that depend on grasses for their nutrition.”

“Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), reported as important in cancer prevention, is only naturally produced in the rumen in a cow that is only grass-fed, and it is then shared with us,” Baker reports in his blog.

Initially, the Baker Ranch was 200 acres of chemically treated pastures where he kept Limosuin cattle to graze the land.

In 2008, he began converting the land to a sustainable, organic biologic ranch. When it expanded to 450 acres, he knew he needed help and hired Chappell.

At first, Chappell, who lives on the ranch with his wife, said he wasn’t sure about going from being a rodeo cowboy to grass farmer. But the transition proved to be a natural fit.

“The way I was brought up, we never used pesticides,” Chappell said. “It took us three years to get the grass to grow (here).

Now I can’t be a cowboy first — I’m a grass

farmer first.”

Baker said he doesn’t expect the ranch to turn a profit, but continues to sell his beef directly to individual customers who can buy one piece or several.

“The only way we are going to get back

to eating healthy food is for people to stop buying the processed and GMO foods,” he said. “It’s all about health. I do all of this for three reasons: healthy foods, to be good stewards of the environment and humane treatment of animals.”

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TexAdventures

Take a hike and explore Mother Neff

Story by Fred Afflerbach Photographs by Fred Afflerbach and Kimberley Williams

O

ur mothers rightly deserve the love and recognition Mother’s Day brings each May. During this annual homage to motherhood, let us not forget another mom and her role as matriarch of Texas State Parks. It’s time to visit Mother Neff. She’s dressed in assorted shades of green and welcomes you with open arms. Gaze into her starry eyes. Stay overnight, or a long weekend, and come away with renewed spirit and admiration for her history.

Mother Neff State Park near Moody is a wooded, 400-acre riverfront preserve with hiking trails, fishing, camping, and a unique past. The park’s name honors Neff, a Texas frontier woman who raised nine children in a log cabin. Neighbors dubbed her Mother Neff because, in addition to her large brood, she adopted three orphans.

Isabella and husband Noah left Virginia in a horse-drawn wagon bound for Texas in 1854. They drove 52 days, resting only on Sundays, and arrived in Belton where they lived a short time. The Neffs then moved to present-day Coryell County, near the Leon River, and grew cotton.

Neff taught school there and instilled in her youngest son, Pat, a lifelong love of learning.

In 1920, Texas voters elected Pat Morris Neff, a staunch progressive, governor.

When Neff moved into the Governor’s Mansion, Mother Neff moved in also and lived there until her death in 1921.

Since the early 1900s, and with Mother Neff’s blessings, church, family, and civic groups used the site for picnics, reunions and song fests. After her death and to honor his mom’s request, Gov. Neff deeded the six acres she owned on the Leon River to the state because she wished to continue that practice.

The governor declared Mother Neff the first “official state park in Texas.”

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Emily Snyder and Peter Querubin, a recently-engaged Houston couple, visited Mother Neff State Park in March to have their photograph taken at this Rock Tower, built as an 11,000-gallon cistern in the 1930s.

Texas legislature in 1923 to create the State Parks Board, which was the seed for today’s Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

In 1934, former governor Neff donated to the state 250 adjoining acres to the original six his mother deeded a decade earlier. Company 817 of the Civilian Conservation Corps set up camp that year. The men labored four years working with pick, shovel and wheelbarrow, carving a park out of raw and wild land.

On Mother’s Day, May 14, 1938, about 1,000 people attended the official Mother Neff State Park Dedication Ceremony.

In the ensuing decades, the lazy Leon transformed into an unpredictable waterway with a bad temper. The first flood, in 1938, destroyed original CCC pergolas.

Later in the century, the river swamped Mother Neff more frequently and with more severity.

For more than a half century, Mother Neff was plagued with a pattern of flooding and drying out. High water at the recreational hall reached 20 feet deep in 1992, and the park was again completely submerged in 2007. The park was sometimes closed for several months at a time. Work-

Park Ranger Jeremy Gann explains to hikers that CCC workers discovered a burial site at this cave where three Native Americans had been laid to rest. The bodies were moved to a different location at the park but have since disappeared.

ers in 2008 scraped layers and layers of mud and silt from historic buildings and hauled away numerous truckloads of tree trunks, limbs and other debris.

On a recent group hike, Ranger Jeremy Gann said decades of unhealthy agricultural practices and urban sprawl upstream altered the landscape in an unnatural way.

Storm runoff had less vegetation to slow it down, thus the river was carrying a heavier load. In 1954, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers damned the Leon and built Belton Lake.

“That doubled the floods as well, because with the water backed up two miles downstream, it was easier for that water to back up into the park,” Gann said. “The Leon River can change quite a bit. It can be a nice river to catch catfish on a beautiful day like this. And it can be a nice river to anchor your canoe to the top of a building and cast out a line.”

Makeover Although the park has suffered much adversity over the years, brighter days are here. Last January, the park celebrated the

completion of a $6.5 million renovation that took almost two years to complete.

A new, 3,800 square foot park headquarters opened on higher ground in January.

Inside, you will find nature and history books, souvenirs, an oral history and a multimedia room in which you can view photos and read special memories written by other visitors. A nearby paved camping loop with 20 multi-use sites can accommodate RVers and tent campers.

“The first phase of the redevelopment reflects the need to develop safer camping opportunities and park facilities at the park’s higher elevations that can be enjoyed regardless of frequent bottomland flooding,” said TPWD’s Joelynn Barclay, master planner.

Additional plans for restoring original structures, building a group hall, campfire theater and bunkhouse cabins await state funding. Today, the park reflects the early years with green meadows and historic CCC buildings near the river. On high ground, the modern era begins with white limestone buildings and camping spots with water and electricity.

Hiking trails and tours Mother Neff sits at the ecological crossroads of three distinct regions: a riparian zone with river frontage and towering pecans and sycamores; a limestone uplift with small canyons typical of Central Texas, and Blackland Prairie with its fertile soil.

Hikers can explore all three zones within a few hours. Ranging from easy to moderate degrees of difficulty, you don’t have to be an experienced backpacker to traverse the several miles of trails that weave through dense groves of pecans and cedar elms, span creeks on wooden bridges, ascend to a hilltop view at the original CCC water tower, and meander down to a limestone cave the Tonkawas once called home.

One short trail takes you to an aviary treat called the Bird Blind. Sit still and hide on a bench inside a rustic wooden shelter camouflaged by cedar limbs. Watch for warblers, killdeer, woodpeckers, and, if you’re lucky, a barred owl may visit.

On a bright March afternoon, Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Park Ranger Jeremy Gann leads the hikers as to what they will be seeing on their “Life is Better Outside” hike at Mother Neff State Park.

Katherine Greiner of Lampasas hiked the Lost Trail a couple miles to the limestone cave. Recovering from hip and knee replacement surgery, she climbed with the aid of aluminum hiking sticks up a set of steps hewn out of a rocky hillside, then down to a cool shady alcove. Greiner said she likes Mother Neff’s intimate setting compared to larger parks.

“I’m glad it’s kind of smallish,” Greiner said. “It’s not supercrowded, and closer to home, because everybody’s so busy.”

One-hour, guided tours called Chautauqua Time begin at the Rock Tabernacle at 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Join a ranger on one of the many trails as he explains park history, flora and fauna.

Maybe you’ll get to visit one of the 17 recorded archeological sites that lie within park boundaries.

Back at the Rock Tabernacle (a pavilion built by the CCC in the 1930s) Gann reflected on Mother Neff’s role as Texas matriarch in securing public access to special places.

“We are at the heart of the Texas Parks and Wildlife State Parks system,” Gann said. “This is where it all began. It’s a pretty special thing we have here in Central Texas.”

If you go Visit Mother Neff on Mother’s Day weekend. A special exhibit, “Noble Woman—Worthy Cause,” will be on display at Mother Neff State Park on May 9 and 10 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. In addition, a park ranger will lead a discussion both days at 2 p.m. You will learn why Governor Pat Neff called his mom “the noblest and best woman.”

Mother Neff State Park is located on 1680 Texas Hwy. 236 in Moody and is just a 30 minute drive from Temple. Take Interstate 35 north to Bruceville-Eddy and exit on Texas 107. Go west through Moody and turn left on Texas 236. The park is a half mile down on the right. For more information, call 254-853-2389.

The park is renovated and open for camping, hiking, biking, fishing and kicking back by a campfire. Park hours: Day use, 8 a.m.

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MAY 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Katherine Greiner, Jennifer Barr and Ron Greiner climb a hill with park ranger Jeremy Gann on the Lost Trail. Most trails are only a mile or two long and easily traversed by novice hikers. The terrain ranges from flat lowlands to short climbs.

to 10 p.m. Cost $2, age 13 and older; free, age 12 and younger.

Office hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Camping: Check in after 2 p.m. Check out next day by 2 p.m.

Tent camping with water on site, $12 per night. Multiuse camping, water, electric and sewer, $25 per night.

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Healthy Success................................57

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Hallmark Service Co........................65

Texas Bariatric Specialists................73

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Texas Farm Bureau..........................53

Jean Shine........................................51

The Gin at Nolan Creek

Julius Price Realty............................46

Steakhouse.......................................17

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Wayne Benson M.D. P.A. Clinic.......2

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

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

73

TexTherapy

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— Mitch Albom

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APRIL 2015 | TEX APPEAL

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