Texappeal september 2015 by Temple Daily Telegram

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

OctOber 2013 tex AppeAl

September 2015

SEPTEMBER 2015 | TEX APPEAL

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Features

TEACHER PREPARATION

Diaz a beacon of light for students Amber Lynn Diaz, Ed.D, certification officer and assistant professor for Teacher Education at Texas A&M CT knows there is more to becoming an educator than a four-year bachelor degree. There is also a stringent certification process for teaching grades K-12 in Texas once a bachelor degree is conferred. By CATHERINE HOSMAN

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Weekend college

CTC caters to working students

Associate Dean Amy RandolphChernis, of CTC’s Evening and Weekend College has been in Killeen for only four months. She is trying to get used to the Texas heat, which is quite different from the four seasons of Elkhart, Ind., where she was born and raised. A U.S. Army veteran and retired military spouse, she may be new to Killeen, but she is not new to Central Texas College. By CATHERINE HOSMAN

SEPTEMBER 2015 | TEX APPEAL

LULAC Foundation reaches out to students Former Killeen Mayor Raul Villaronga has a vested interest — in youth. By SHARON WHITE

Connecting careers

Walking into the paneled office of Dr. Glenda O. Barron, president of Temple College, it’s hard not to feel just a bit intimidated. For a moment, it feels like being called into the principal’s office for an unknown offense. Within moments those “déjà vu” feelings give way to a smile and firm handshake. By CATHERINE HOSMAN

HEAling hands

UMHB dean touches lives, produces skilled, ethical nurses As students come and go through the lobby of the Isabelle Rutherford Meyer nursing building on the campus of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, talking, laughing and exchanging notes, a smiling woman enters the room from her office on the first floor. By JESSA McCLURE

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

Open 7 days a week!

The Shoppes on Main 22 N. Main Street, Salado

254-947-0888

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Departments

TexTalk Neighbors Bell County Oral History Project

TexTalk FLAVOURs Arusha’s Coffee House

TexTalk BEAUTY Amber Lynn Diaz opens her bag

TexTalk SCENE Belton Sip & Stroll GeekFest at Central Texas College Salado Grape Harvest Salado Art Fair Bridal Show at the Vineyard at Florence

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

September 2015

From the editor

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Contributors 1

OctOber 2013 tex AppeAl

ON the COVER Dr. Glenda O. Barron of Temple College. 37 Photograph by MITCHEL BARRETT

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PROFILES

ADVERTISER’S INDEX

TexTalk CALENDAR Upcoming events in September

TexTalk Well-Fed head Firewall by Diann Mills

TexHEALTH College immunization requirements

TexADVENTURES Explore Krause Springs

TexTHERAPY

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From the Editor Dear Readers, Often people ask me what is the favorite part of my job and I always have the same response — the people. Because of my chosen career field, I have the privilege to meet interesting people of all ages and from all walks of life that I would most likely not have met in my everyday life. My position gives me a license to be nosy and I do my best to unravel the layers of my subjects to reveal their inner persona. One of the things I find most illuminating is that with every interview I do, I learn a little more about myself. There have been many “aha” moments, or epiphanies that have reinforced my passion for writing people stories. Everyone has a story, and it’s the story behind the story that makes the reading interesting. We did something different for September and focused on colleges in our community. I met Associate Dean Amy Randolph-Chernis, who heads the new CTC Weekend and Evening College that helps working adults study toward a degree or certificate. It wasn’t long into the conversation when I learned about her first passion, Ancient History, and how she went from being a kid who joined the army after high school because she didn’t know what she wanted to be when she grew up, to becoming an associate dean at CTC, Page 43. Meeting Dr. Glenda O. Barron, president of Temple College, was like a surprise gift you received for no reason at all. Dr. Barron sits at the helm of Temple College and as the wrappings of conversation changed from academic to personal she revealed her East Texas persona that is deeply imbedded into the roots of her heritage and very much the impetus of her success, Page 37. Dr. Amber Lynn Diaz, who teaches “teacher preparation” at Texas A&M-Central Texas, is on a mission to help new teachers understand the diversity of their students and know that each student hides a “hurt heart.” Her compassion and empathy are an extension of the emotional upheavals she endured in her own life, which could have sent her down a different path. Her determination to help others have hope and rise above adversity led her to earn her academic position where she teaches the art of teaching to the heart, Page 31. If there is one common thread that runs through each of these women, it’s a tenacity to rise above adversity to become all that they could in order to help others. Like a plaque I recently saw that read, “It is what it is, but it becomes what you want it to be.” Belton locals and college students looking for a respite from the daily grind can get their fix of freshly roasted ground coffee from Arusha’s Coffee House in Belton. A family-friendly establishment, it welcomes to students, adults and children, Page 14. Working with representatives from Texas A&M-Central Texas, the Belton Oral History Project is in the process of recording the histories of the elders currently living in Bell County. Stories about growing up rural, serving in World War II, the Korean War surviving the depression, living without indoor plumbing, air conditioning and other early-to-mid 20th century challenges will be available for future generations to hear, Page 12. Before the kids head back to school, take a side trip to Krause Falls. Once a hidden oasis in Spicewood, Texas, this family-owned swimming hole and campground welcomes a cool respite from the triple digit heat of summer, Page 60. Have a seat in your favorite chair, pour yourself a cup or glass of your favorite beverage and enjoy meeting your neighbors in the September collegiate issue of Tex Appeal.

Catherine Hosman

Tex Appeal Editor

SEPTEMBER 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Tex Appeal Life & Style in Central Texas

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 Photographers/Graphic Designers

JULIE NABOURS RENEE BLUE ERIC J. SHELTON

Contributors FRED AFFLERBACH MITCHEL BARRETT MIKE BARTOSZEK CRAIG LIFTON JEROMIAH LIZAMA JESSA McCLURE SHARON WHITE Advertising 254-778-4444 254-501-7500

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 254-778-4444.

Postmaster: Send address changes to: Tex Appeal Magazine, P.O. Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114. How to contact us: Advertising: Call 254-778-4444 or 254-501-7500. Editorial: Contact Catherine Hosman at 254-501-7511 or email edittexappealmagazine@ gmail.com.

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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 experience photographing and/or writing features for a newspaper or magazine. 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. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Contributors

SHARON WHITE is an award-winning children’s writer, a former teacher, author and avid volunteer. She writes a weekly lifestyle blog based on her book, “Quintessential Style: Cultivate and Communicate Your Signature Look.” She has been proud to call Central Texas home for more than 30 years.

FreD AFFLERBACH 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.

Jessa McClure is a part-time freelance writer and full-time 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.

MITCHEL BARRETT 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.

JEROMIAH LIZAMA is a freelance photographer specializing in conceptual fine arts portraiture and event photography. He is also a full-time student having studied at the Art Institute and now pursues a degree in filmmaking at Full Sail University. He is a “military brat” and former defense contractor of 12 years traveling all over Europe and Southeast Asia. He now lives in Killeen with his four kids and their dog, Cain.

MIKe BARTOSZEK was born in Las Vegas, Nev., and traveled to various Army installations, including tours in Germany; his family finally settled in Killeen. Growing up, Mike had a passion for concert production working on such shows as ZZ Top, Korn and Ted Nugent. He pursues a career in video production and photography and has since worked for various entertainment companies such as Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and KNCT. He enjoys a life of travel, adventure, outdoor photography, and is expecting his first child.

CRAIG LIFTON is a freelance photographer and has been shooting photographs since his early teen years in Detroit, Mich. A 24-year veteran with the National Guard Service and the Air Force, he now works as an Army civilian in public relations, video broadcasting and journalism at Fort Hood. Craig recently branched out on his own to study more about his interest in photography. A resident of the Central Texas area since 2005, Craig and his family now love the culture and landscapes of their new home.

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TexTalk

neighbors 13 spotlight 16 beauty 18 flavour 19 scene 20 well-fed head 23 calendar 24

Capturing memories

Story by Fred Afflerbach Photos by Jeromiah Lizama Bill and Mayelle Carlisle take part in the Bell County Oral History Project.

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TexTalk neighbors

Bell County Oral History Project preserves past

he Great Depression. World War II scrap drives. Camp Hood. Construction of a dam and a freeway that would change the face of Bell County. The turbulent 1960s, civil rights and public school integration. An all-volunteer army called the Bell County Oral History Project wants these stories and more to preserve for posterity what life has been like in Bell County going back, well, as far as anyone can remember. The ambitious endeavor is operated under the auspices of the Belton Senior Activity Center. About three years ago, two local retired businessmen, Dennis Turk and Jay Taggart, sowed the seeds for a rich garden of history. Both men have been active at the center, helping it gain nonprofit status and secure a permanent home. What they saw in the seniors alarmed them and pushed them to take action. “Most of the people attending the senior center are in their 70s, 80s and 90s. That is a rapidly expiring font of wisdom,” Turk said. “These people have had experiences that so many people have no idea about. I just think that every one of them who walks in the door, eventually, I’d like to see get on tape where we can sort of understand what they came through. A lot of them are World War II vets. A lot of them are Korean War vets and vets of other wars, and their spouses and girlfriends. It’s a real significant treasure trove of information.” To germinate the first seeds, folks at the senior center formed a well-rounded committee. Academics schooled in oral history, business professionals, and folks excited about the project sat down together. Volunteer Sherryn Peck said the project’s purpose is to “provide an oral history of what life was like in Bell County during the 20th century, from the perspective of its residents, whether it be family, professions, schooling, education, religion, community, children, grandchildren, just the whole realm.” Peck said she is excited about two upcoming interviews with Bell County 12

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Bill and Mayelle Carlisle were interviewed for the Bell County Oral History Project.

Volunteer Sherryn Peck said the project’s purpose is to “provide an oral history of what life was like in Bell County during the 20th century, from the perspective of its residents, whether it be family, professions, schooling, education, religion, community, children, grandchildren, just the whole realm.” women now in their ninth decade. So far, about 30 interviews have been recorded and transcribed. Committee member Allen Lowe is an oral history adjunct professor at Texas A&M University Central Texas in Killeen. Working on this project is a labor of love, and he wants to ensure folks understand what oral history is. “Oral history is what an individual has experienced or seen, not what they have heard,” Lowe said. “What we’re do-

ing is capturing what a person has seen, done, or experienced, firsthand. That person was there. The bottom line of this whole thing is getting stories from the people.” Lowe has so far organized his interviews into such categories as World War II, the Great Depression and public school integration. Listening to these narratives, he was able to compile a synopsis of how public school integration in Bell County played out in the 1950s and 60s. Lowe said

Back row, from left: Dr. Al Lowe, Lisa Bunkowksi, Sherryn Peck and David Jones. Front: Bill and Mayelle Carlisle.

Killeen was the first to integrate because the commanding general at Fort Hood took a stand. Belton followed several years later, but Temple refused. Black students won equal opportunity in public education only after a federal court sued the Temple school district. These firsthand accounts from students and school administrators are a good example of how Bell County residents lived their lives, which is the focus of the oral history program. Committee members plan to incorporate various media into the project. Lowe is working on a scrapbook he plans to soon publish. Audio, video and old photographs will be digitally copied and accessible online and through archives at TAMUCT. People could listen to a CD or log on to a website and listen to Bell County residents share their tales, for example, of life during the 1950s drought. The Bell County Museum also could join the project.

Dr. Lisa Bunkowski of TAMUCT several years ago taught an oral history class. (One of her students was Allen Lowe.) She is spearheading the drive this fall to digitize and archive these interviews and make them public. “An important part of this project for the university is that we preserve the recorded experiences of the people of Belton/Bell County,” Bunkowski wrote in an e-mail. “As a social and cultural historian, I find these experiences to be such an important part of our shared American History. It is vital that we capture whatever people are willing to share with us, preserve it in the archive, and make it accessible through the library website to researchers and to the public.” The oral history project should have a long life. Altogether, anywhere from 5,000-10,000 people could share their stories with interviewers. This creates a need for more volunteers to sit in their neigh-

bors’ homes, roll the tape, step back and let Bell County residents tell their story. To understand the theory and methodology of oral history, and out of respect to the folks who are sharing some heartfelt moments, volunteers must first attend a workshop. Afterward they need to pass an online course through the National Institute of Health. Ethics and understanding are important while interviewing, committee members say, because some seniors could become uncomfortable with sensitive issues and tragic moments. One recently certified volunteer, Billy Ray Laxton, said, “I think there will be some magic some other people can experience. Whether it’s in their personal lives, or hearing someone else tell it.” As of now, the project is funded through the Belton Senior Activity Center. To contribute or volunteer, contact David Jones at david@belltec.net or Allen Lowe at al.lowe28@yahoo.com. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Belton cafe

serves up mor e than just a good cup of coffee Story by CATHERINE HOSMAN Photos by JULIE NABOURS

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flavours TexTalk

rusha’s . . . say it again but with more passion — aRUSHa’s — because passion is what you get from owner Tunisian-born Hatem Chouchane and his close friend and manager, Haitian-born Ernst Jacques (he goes by Jacques). Open from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. seven days a week, Arusha’s Coffee House is operated in tandem by Chouchane and Jacques. The atmosphere is student and family friendly. It has become the place to go for college students and locals looking for a great cup of coffee or a relaxing tea. Community groups hold meetings here and it’s not unusual to see a birthday party, baby or bridal shower happening on one of the three seating levels. “It’s a beautiful atmosphere,” said Chouchane, pointing out that the building has a historical marker outside its door. But what really defines Arusha’s is the fresh roasted coffee prepared in-house weekly. Jacques said raw beans are selected from 20 regions around the world and slow roasted twice a week in roaster tucked

Mediterranean-style Meat Sandwich A 500-year-old recipe for Tunisian street food

Ingredients

¾ pound ground lamb ¼ pound ground beef (you can use all beef if preferred) 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon of dried red pepper ½ teaspoon cumin 1 tablespoon salt to cure meat ½ tablespoon black pepper One or two mint leaves to taste Sheep casing Grind dry red pepper and olive oil into a paste. Mix pepper paste with other seasonings (save a little to spread on sandwich). Mix meat and seasonings together. Stuff meat mixture into sheep casing (available from sausage shop or online). Sun dry sausages on rack for three to five days. Once sausages have dried, bake, grill, sauté or broil until done. Spread leftover seasoning paste on toasted rye bread or crusty bread of choice. Top with two scrambled eggs and Mediterranean olives and sun dried tomatoes. Garnish with a whole dill pickle and olives. Enjoy.

Ernst Jacques, and owner, Hatem Chouchane away in the back of the establishment. He roasts the beans in batches of 25 pounds, including decaf. It takes 20 minutes to roast at 450 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and 25 minutes to cool for a medium roast coffee. “We do it twice a week because some coffee sells faster than others,” Jacques said. “We only roast enough coffee for one week so we always have fresh roasted coffee.” Customers can special order flavored roasted beans in hazelnut cream, Southern pecan, bourbon streusel, crème brule, Irish cream, French vanilla and more. “These are the most popular flavors and can be added to decaf or caffeine beans,” Jacques said. In addition to one of these fine coffees prepared anyway you like — hot, iced, latte, cappuccino, frappuchino, espresso, Turkish — you learn a little about the regions they come from, and what goes into the roast. For example, Chouchane described Turkish coffee as a blend of orange peel, hummus and coriander with Sumatran coffee. “Espresso is a blend of beans from Sumatra that has an espresso roast, Tanzania (the shop is named for the town of Arusha in Tanzania) and Guatemala that adds a creamy texture with a hint of chocolate to the coffee,” Jacques said. Students looking for a place to unwind, study or just commiserate with a fine cup of coffee will find comfortable chairs and couches and plenty of table seating to open their laptops to do research, write their latest paper or study for their next class. At least

once a week, a local musician will bring in a guitar for an acoustic set of music, or poets can be heard reciting their most recent verse. “We want it to feel like being at home for our guests,” Chouchane said. “We want to make it as comfortable as we can.” Arusha’s also offers custom-blended teas from different world cultures; local and imported pastries line the shelves of a refrigerated display. Three sandwiches are available for purchase, including their trademark sandwich that comes directly from Mestir, Tunisia, where Chouchane worked in his uncle’s coffee shop. This sandwich is handmade down to the lamb/beef sausage that is the main star between two slices of toasted rye bread. It is topped with scrambled eggs and served on a platter garnished with olives and a whole dill pickle. This hearty meal will fill the stomach of any hungry college student on the run to his first class in the morning. “This is real Tunisian street food,” Chouchane said.

Arusha’s Coffee House 126 N East St, Belton 254-933-2233

Sunday through Saturday 7:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Beauty in the Bag

beauty TexTalk

By CATHERINE HOSMAN

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.

Amber Lynn Diaz, Ed.D

Certification officer, assistant professor, Texas A&M-Central Texas

The ESSENTIALS she CARRIES Michael Kors Wallet & Crossover: It holds my cards, money, phone and Kleenex. It is a wallet and purse all-in-one. Business Card Holder: Because I constantly meet new people, having my business cards makes it easy for me to give them my contact information. Eucerin Hand Treatment: My hands get dry very easily and I always make sure to carry around hand cream. I love this brand because a little goes a long way, it smells good and softens my hands immediately. Purell hand sanitizer: What can I say, I like clean hands.

Tylenol, Ibuprofen and Aleve: I carry all three in a little pill case just in case. IceBreakers Ice Cubes: My favorite gum that you will find in my car, in my husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s car, in multiple places in my home, in my office â&#x20AC;Ś Thirty-One Makeup Organizer: This organizer fits right into my purse and holds my makeup essentials to get me through any situation during the day. Blistex Deep Renewal chapstick: I love this chapstick. It is not greasy, has great moisture and a great scent. Revlon nail file: I wear my nails natural, so I need to be able to take care of them as needed.

Photographs by MITCHEL BARRETT

Most valuable TOOL in her BAG

My Samsung Galaxy Note 4 smartphone because it keeps me connected to my family, church family and work family. I organize my life through this handy device. Do you have a signature item? My favorite perfume right now is Michael Kors Sexy Amber. My husband bought it for me at Christmas and it is my go to most mornings. Tell us about any other essential item that helps make your life easier. I have recently started learning more about essential oils and amazed by how essential oils have changed my life. I have an oil diffuser in my office and I carry essential oils with me. The most important essential oil I carry with me is PastTense by doTerra. When I get a headache, I reach for this amazing essential oil. It really helps cure my day-to-day headaches. 16

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TexTalk scene

Central Texans Sip & Stroll through Belton 2

1. Krista Bruno and Merrill Grove of Red Road Vineyard & Winery tell Ty and Aubin Moudy of Waco, about the wine from their vineyard at Be.You.Tiful Salon, during the annual Belton Sip and Stroll. 2. Helen and Gary Barmier, of Belton, sip wine along Main Street. 3. Joy Burgar of Belton, tries a glass of wine from Jose Mumoz of Dionisio Winery in Houston. Photos by CRAIG LIFTON 18

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scene TexTalk

4. James and Monica Silcott of Temple, try some wine from The Vineyard at Florence from Daniela DaSuta at Cochran, Blair & Potts, during the annual Sip and Stroll in downtown Belton. 5. Ty Moudy smells wine from Red Road Vineyard & Winery at Be.You.Tiful Salon. 6. As Linda Gibson, of Temple, talks with Jose Mumoz and Jimmy Aranda of Dionisio Winery of Houston at the Salon & Spa at Greenbriar, Lynda Schuman, of Troy, shows off her purchases. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexTalk scene

Geekfest draws crowd at Central Texas College 2 3 1. Nearly 80 contestants line up for a costume contest Aug. 16 during GeekFest at Central Texas College. 2. Johnny Huang, as Mikey from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, signs nunchucks for festivalgoers. 3. Patrice and Brian Gifford of Harker Heights look at comic books. Photos by MIKE BARTOSZEK and LANA HUSBAND 20

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scene TexTalk

Volunteers help with grape harvest at Salado winery

1. June Ritterbusch, owner of Salado Wine Seller and Salado Winery Company, sits next to a bunch of grapes ready to be harvested during the 10th anniversary harvest in Salado. 2. Jason Curb shows off a large bunch of freshly picked Merlot grapes. 3. Lauren Weldon picks Merlot grapes. Photos by MIKE BARTOSZEK TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexTalk scene

Artisan works on display at annual Salado fair 2 3

1. Roger and Susan Gallup of Temple look through landscape photos at the Salado Art Fair at The Venue on College Street. 2. Helen Alexander works on an oil painting. 3. Hatter Arvel Voatner creases a new cowboy hat for a buyer at the 49th annual fair. Photos by MIKE BARTOSZEK 22

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scene TexTalk

Vineyard at Florence holds bridal show 1. Future brides and grooms explore a bridal expo Aug. 9 at the Vineyard at Florence. The expo featured photographers, caterers, DJs, florists, coordinators, event designers, hair stylists, makeup artists and more. 2. Sean Niski, left, and Shamika Brewster, middle, discuss photo packages with photographer Kelly Cameron. 3. Bride Kathy Sifuentes, left, and groom Steven Tolliver, right, try the Altered Wedding Productions photo booth with Iziah Tolliver, 9 months. Photos by KARIN MARKERT TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexTalk calendar

Temple’s Biggest Garage Sale Sept. 4, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Unique bargains and one-of-a-kind treasures will fill the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center. Admission $3 per person. Vendor applications available until Sept. 2. Cost for a 10’ x 10’ booth is $25. Space is limited. 3303 N. 3rd St., Temple For more information, visit mayborncenter.com or call 254-298-5720 to obtain a vendor application. Temple College Hank Edward Cosper Acoustic show Sept. 4, 6 p.m. Hank Edward Cosper performs his family-friendly acoustic show consisting of his blend of country, classic rock, a bit of blues and few originals, too. 2600 South 1st Street, Temple For more information contact the Fine Arts Divisional Office, 254-7786693.

The annual Central Texas State Fair kicks off Labor Day weekend at the Bell County Expo Center in Belton. 24

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Central Texas State Fair Sept. 4-6 The annual Central Texas State Fair kicks off Labor Day weekend at the Bell County Expo Center. This four-day event is packed with entertainment and attractions including a carnival with nightly armband specials, double point livestock shows (steer, heifer, goat, lamb, pig), a petting zoo, sidewalk comedy show, military night, professional bull riding in the air-conditioned dome, food, commercial booths, arts and crafts, live music on the outdoor stage, and much more with something fun for the entire family to enjoy. Fairground Admission, $7 plus service fee after 5 p.m.; Pro-Bull Riding Admission: adult reserve seating, $18, adult general admission, $13, child reserve seating, $13 child general admission, $8, reserve family 4-pack, $49; general admission Family 4-pack, $34, All tickets subject to facility fee and applicable service charge. Bell County Expo Center 301 West Loop 121 Belton For more information, call 254-9335353 or visit centraltexasstatefair.com.

Two Tons of Steel Sept. 5, 7:30 p.m. Pre-show dinner: Call for information. Two Tons of Steel brings its touch-ofcountry-meet- punk high energy flare to stage. They have been named “Band of the Year” on 12 separate occasions and “Album of the Year” for its self-titled debut. Two Tons Of Steel, Kevin Geil, Jake “Sidecar” Marchese on upright bass, Brian Duarte on lead guitar and Paul Ward on drums continues to push the line between country and punk with its “Unraveled” produced by Lloyd Maines in 2013. Cultural Activities Center 3011 N. Third Street, Temple For more information, call 254-7739926 or visit www.cacarts.org Homespun History Family Day Sept. 5, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free Take a step back in time and learn about traditional crafts like weaving, pottery, quilting or metalworking. Watch the experts demonstrate their skill and try your hand at crafting your own old-fashioned masterpiece. Railroad and Heritage Museum 315 W. Avenue B, Temple For more information, call 254-2985585 or visit www.rrhm.org. Kings of the River: Steamboat Transportation in the American Southwest Sept. 5-Oct. 31 This temporary exhibit showcases

calendar TexTalk

Bring canned goods to donate to the Harker Heights Farmers Market on Sept. 5.

19th century photos of daily life in steamboats along the Mississippi River when steamboats and cotton still dominated transportation and commerce. Railroad and Heritage Museum 315 W. Avenue B, Temple For more information, call 254-2985585 or visit www.rrhm.org.

Harker Heights Farmers Market Themed Market: Canned Food Drive Sept. 5, 8 a.m. to noon We will be collecting nonperishable food items benefiting the Harker Heights Food Care Center. Seton Medical Center Harker Heights, 850 W. Central Texas Expressway

Sweet Adelines A Cappella Chorus Seeks Female Singers for Upcoming Performance Cultural Arts Activities Center Thursdays beginning Sept. 10 through Nov. 12 6:30 to 8 p.m. Performance Nov. 21 Chisholm Trail Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is hosting, “Spotlight The Performer In You,” beginning Sept. 10 and includes four pieces of music, learning tracks, and 10 weekly sessions filled with choreography and vocal guidance. No experience is necessary and women of any age are welcome to participate. This is the second year for the program, Continued

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TexTalk calendar which attracted about 10 additional singers for the chorus show last year. A limited number of spots are available at the door on Sept. 10, so pre-registration is encouraged to secure your place on the stage. More information and registration details visit www.chisholmtrailchorus.org; email chisholmtrailers@ aol.com, or call 254-541-4666. Cultural Arts Activities Center, 3011 North Third St, Temple

Harker Heights Parks & Recreation 6th Annual Puppypalooza Sept. 12, 8 to 11 a.m. This free, fun and dog-friendly event for all ages will include demonstrations, adoptions, dog and owner games, swimming, pet advice, and more. Carl Levin Park, 400 Miller’s Crossing For more information call 254-9535465 or visit Parks & Recreation’s website at www.ci.harker-heights.tx.us/parks. Harker Heights Food, Wine & Brew Fest Sept. 12, 4-10 p.m. $15 advance; $20 at gate; includes a souvenir glass, five wine/beer tasting tickets, live music and wine class. Kids 13 and older, $10; Kids under 12 are free. Enjoy live music, culinary chefs, food, artists, breweries, homebrew demos, Texas wineries, Wine 101 class and more. Harker Heights Community Park 1501 East FM 2410 For more information. call the Harker Heights Chamber of Commerce at 254-699-4999 or visit www.hhchamber. com. Temple Literacy Council’s Annual Fun and Fundraiser: Reading and Riding on the Chisholm Trail Sept. 12, 3 to 6 p.m. Enter a time portal and follow in the footsteps of the cattlemen who rode the Chisholm Trail “straight through Belton” during the 1870s. On this hour-long guided walk through the Bell County Museum local dignitaries will read from published cowboy authors and historians. Musicians including the Ensemble from the Chisholm Trail Chorus will entertain at several stops along the trail. And at the Chuck Wagon, hungry riders will enjoy sampling the cowboys’ favorite foods 26

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Sheila Gill stands with her dog, Bunt, the winner of the biggest dog competition, during Puppypalooza at Carl Levin Park in Harker Heights last year. This year’s event is Sept. 12.

and meet our celebrity author, George Rhoades, before the adventure ends. This event is free and open to the public. For those wishing to make donations, they may be made at the event or mailed to the Temple Literacy Council, 100 W. Adams Ave., Temple, TX 76501. Bell County Museum 201 N. Main St., Belton For more information, call 254-7747323 or emailtempleliteracy@juno.com.

Salado Chocolate and Wine Weekend Sept. 18-20 Enjoy the “Chocolate Trail” throughout the Village of Salado which includes wine and chocolate tastings in the local shops. First stop, the Visitor’s Center, 831 N. Main St., to pick up a goody bag, signature glass and passport. Your passport will serve as your ticket to get into each location and you will need your glass in order to drink. Village of Salado For times and fees, call 254- 9478634, visit www.salado.com, email dcharbonneau@saladotx.gov or visit www. hhfoodandwine.com.

Tot Spot Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 21, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a mini fiesta! Join us for mini sombreros and mini piñatas! All preschoolers are welcome to tour the galleries with Kristen Reichert, our visual arts director, then create their own works of art to take home. Cost is $3/child for members and $5/child for non-members. All children under 2 years are free. Cultural Activities Center 3011 N. Third Street, Temple For more information, call Kristen Reichert, Visual Arts Director, 254-7739926 or visit visualarts@cacarts.org. Belton Senior Expo Sept. 22, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Senior Expo is held annually at the Bell County Expo Center and is free and open to the public. The Expo is designed to showcase how businesses, organizations and activities in the Central Texas area make our community a “Senior Friendly” place to live. With more than

calendar TexTalk

Brenda Pruitt, left, participates in the processional last year at the Four Winds Intertribal Society Powwow with her mother, Rita Deersky Handy, center, and grandmother, Patricia Standing Horse Thurber, at the Killeen Civic and Conference Center.

90 vendors, participants can pick up information on nutrition and fitness, financial planning, pharmaceuticals, volunteer opportunities, hobbies, leisure activities, receive free health screenings, learn about different retirement communities, nursing rehab facilities, Medicare, Medicaid and receive help with making after-life arrangements. The no pressure, fun-filled day also features live entertainment and drawings for door prizes. Bell County Expo Center 301 W. Loop 121, Belton The Senior Expo is free and open to the public. For more information call 254-939-5754.

Johnny’s Outback presents Stoney LaRue Sept. 26, 7 p.m. Advance admission $20 301 Thomas Arnold Road, Salado For more information, call 254-9474663 or visit info@johnnyssteaksandbbq. com 2nd Annual Temple Parks Foundation Food Truck Fest 2015 Sept. 26, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Bring the family to the Santa Fe Depot Gardens for a day of great food, live music and family friendly events. A variety of food trucks serving Samoan, Korean, Cajun, barbecue, burgers and more will be available to satisfy every appetite. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert. Santa Fe Depot Gardens 315 W. Avenue B., Temple For more information, call 254-2985585 or visit www.templeparks.com.

Tri-City Remote Video Astronomy group of MECATX Sept. 27, 5 p.m. to midnight Celebrate the lunar eclipse, stargaze and join in an old fashioned bluegrass jam session. View the lunar eclipse with the naked eye, binocular, telescope and video viewing and track the eclipse events. Free and open to the public. Bring lawn chairs, insect repellent, binoculars, telescopes, acoustic instruments, etc. i.e. campers, musicians, astronomers, teachers, and all interested persons are welcome.

Dana Peak Park, Stillhouse Hollow Lake, 3800 Comanche Gap Road, Harker Heights For more information visit www. mecatx.ning.com; youtube channel _ mecatx; www.ustream.tv channel –dfkott; or email dfkott@aol.com

Four Winds 23rd Annual Contest Pow Wow Sept. 26, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sept. 27, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission: $3, students, 6-18 $2, children under 5, free Our mission is to welcome Native Americans and non-Native Americans to join together in an effort to educate ourselves and the general public in the areas of Native American Indian tribal cultures, history and arts. Our goal is the preservation of heritage and the promotion of unity between all peoples. Bell County Expo Center 301 W. Loop 121 Belton Email upcoming events to edittexappealmagazine@gmail.com. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexTalk well-fed head

Take a roller-coaster ride into international intrigue

By CATHERINE HOSMAN

urder, mayhem, mystery, onthe-edge-of-your-seat suspense, plot twists, love and betrayal keep your eyes riveted to the pages of “Firewall,” by DiAnn Mills, published by Tyndale House. A timely story filled with drama ripped from the headlines of global news, “Firewall” is timeless in its fictional depiction of what is happening in the world today, with the city of Houston as its backdrop. The story revolves around Taryn Young, a software developer who marries a charming rogue who sweeps her off her feet after a three-month courtship. Arriving to Houston’s international airport to depart for their romantic honeymoon, the plot shifts and begins a week-long adventure for Young and a cast of characters who will charm you, enrage you, and make you believe in the power of good over evil. Young developed a software program to protect the flow of liquid natural gas through pipelines and a firewall with multiple levels to protect it from hackers. Only she knows how to back into it to engage or disengage the flow. But her protagonist has different plans. As the story unfolds, Young finds herself in situations when she has to rely on her genius in her work as a software developer and skill at Hapkido martial arts that puts her enemies who want control of her program on the defense; however, when confronted, they immediately diffuse her stance, which doesn’t necessarily work out in their favor. A strong female character who finds a higher power to guide her, she makes peace along the way through her new found faith in God, an angel dog she calls, Buddy, and learns how to trust again with FBI agents Grayson and Hall. Mills’ muse is firmly planted in the 21st century as she describes the world of technology and paints a picture of what could happen if sensitive software programs fall into the wrong hands. For anyone who has lived in, visited or passed 28

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Mills’ muse is firmly planted in the 21st century as she describes the world of technology and paints a picture of what could happen if sensitive software programs fall into the wrong hands. through Houston, her descriptions of the landmarks and highways create an image in your mind’s eye and you feel like you are in the middle of the action, riding in cars, trucks, and SUVs. You can see the Galleria, feel the speed of a vehicle, and visualize rural East Texas. “My goal is to have the reader experience the story vicariously through the character,” she said. “Emotive conflict is a part of that goal — to grab the reader and never let her go.” Mills chose Houston for her background because of its size — it’s the fourth

largest city in the United States — its diversity, and its relationship to the oil and gas industry. “With so many different cultures and lifestyles, I asked myself, ‘what distinguishes my city from the rest of the country?’” she said. “That would be oil and gas and the latest technology to ensure the production is safe and efficient. That calls for highly intelligent and skilled people.” With a son in the oil and gas business and a husband with expertise in computer technology, her research was close to home as she tapped into the knowledge possessed by father and son. But she needed more. To truly understand the inner-workings of the FBI and how they protect the country, she enrolled in an eight-week course at Houston’s FBI Citizens Academy. “The goal of the academy is to give those taking the class a glimpse of the FBI and how its special agents serve with their investigations. This method of outreach is popular in cities all over the country. The presentations through lectures, guests, and Power Point revealed the raw and gritty crimes that snake through our city.” Building the characters is the most critical aspect of a successful novel, Mills said. “I begin with a plot, ‘what if?’ and begin playing with the type of protagonist who could do the job while learning and growing into a better person.” She said her character has to want the goal more than life itself, and is never a victim. Taryn Young is the perfect example of such a heroine who is faced with insurmountable odds that would make someone else cave, but she found a way to face her enemies and rise above the life-altering threats. “Suspense, mystery and intrigue are a part of life,” Mills said. “We must be strong to fight those who use selfishness and greed to take what isn’t theirs.” Her novels have simple premise, she said. “Good vs. evil. Both sides are determined. Both possess, or are able to attain, the tools they need to win. My bad guy(s) always has more going for him/them, but my good guy refuses to fail.”

Interested candidates may send resumes and three to five recent stories and/or photographs for consideration to edittexappealmagazine@gmail.com.

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Teacher PREP Diaz a beacon of light for all students

Story by Catherine Hosman Photos by Mitchel Barrett and Eric J. Shelton

mber Lynn Diaz, Ed.D, certification officer and assistant professor for Teacher Education at Texas A&M CT knows there is more to becoming an educator than a four-year bachelor degree. There is also a stringent certification process for teaching grades K-12 in Texas once a bachelor degree is conferred. “We are a department of three that support candidates seeking any certification for education and provide representative testing, practicum placements, and overseeing teacher observations,” Diaz said. New teachers must complete the Texas Examinations of Educator Standards, which are “criterion-referenced examinations designed to measure a candidate’s knowledge in relation to an established criterion rather than to the performance of other candidates.” TExES certification tests are for all teachers including educational and diagnostic, reading specialists, school counselor, principal, and even superintendent. “Anyone wishing to receive a Texas certificate must complete this testing,” she said. In her classroom, Diaz teaches a clinical teaching course based on internal course development lesson plans and classroom management strategies. “We go out and observe the student teachers and give them strategies to help them grow in those areas as well,” she said. “A&M is a great support for me to live out my life’s passion.” Diaz, the former director of intervention and at-risk students at Copperas Cove Independent School District, takes teaching beyond the standard course of required classes for certification. She brings in the humanity about teaching a diverse student population.

Amber Lynn Diaz, Ed.D, talks to incoming instructor Jason Rankin at Texas A&M University-Central Texas.

As an elementary school teacher in the Killeen ISD, Diaz said she saw the stark contrast that diversity brought to her classroom. “I tell new teachers to start with the ‘why,’” she said. “Our (grade, middle and

high school) students come to us with things that have affected them. These are things that have hurt their heart. What can we do to help their heart is to bring in empathy.” Diaz encourages teachers to reach their students on an individual basis. “When I’m teaching, I am trying to grow the best teachers I can,” she said. “I spend time getting to know them and them, me. I encourage and support them.” Katie Ryan, Ed.D, deputy superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Dr. Amber Diaz discusses different teaching techniques with incoming instructors recently at Texas A&M University-Central Texas.

Copperas Cove ISD said Diaz’s philosophy on leadership is one of deed over word. “She is a servant leader through and through. Not a day went by that Dr. Diaz did not work hand-in-hand with administrators, teachers, students and parents.” As an elementary school teacher in the Killeen ISD, Diaz said she saw the stark contrast that diversity brought to her classroom. Some students were rich, others poor; some wore new clothing every day while others wore the same outfit every day; some kids got a carefully packed lunch and others were part of the school’s lunch program. Often, there was a language barrier with children who only knew English as a second language and spoke with an indiscernible accent. Some children make fun of others who might be different from themselves, and this is where Diaz said teacher empathy can make a difference. “We need to make them all feel like we are a classroom family,” she said, whose passion and empathy touches those who meet her. “We all carry hurts, but we’ll be there to support each other.” 32

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Diaz didn’t have her sites set on a teaching career. At first, her thought was to get her bachelor degree, become a teacher and go back to school to get a law degree. But the hand of fate intervened, and while she was a student in 1997 at the University of Wyoming, she was given a job as a lunch monitor and reading apprentice in the UW Lab School. “I remember working with those kids and realizing there was nothing else I’d rather do. They needed me,” she said. “Dr. Diaz is the shining example of ‘do what you say and say what you do.’ You could take her word to the bank. If she committed herself in word, her action was quick to follow,” Ryan said. “Teachers learned from her that we may not have a lot but we have our word and we should always honor our verbal commitments and promises.”

Empathy grown from tragedy Diaz’s depth to feel a child’s pain and empathize is based on her own childhood of uncertainty. Growing up in Scottsbluff, Neb., neither of her parents finished high school, any religious influence was absent and her home life was scarred by her mother’s alcoholism. She said she never knew what kind of day it was going to be

when she got home from school. As children, she and her only brother leaned heavily on their maternal grandparents who still live in Scottsbluff. She said her grandfather gave them gifts and took them camping and fishing quite regularly. “It was a great time for kids to be in nature,” she said. “He also made sure we had school supplies and winter coats.” However, she said, it was evident by the first grade that she didn’t have the academic support many of her classmates had. “I struggled as a reader; I struggled all the way through sixth grade.” But it was the attention of her sixth-grade student teacher, Mr. Arnold, that began to turn the tide for her. “He believed in me. He filled the educational gap so I could start to be successful in school.” After high school graduation her uncertainty about what to do with her life led her to a U.S. Army recruiting office. Just before she signed the official papers, she learned that she was awarded a full scholarship to Casper College in Wyoming, where she earned an associates degree in communications. Despite her achievements, tragedy followed. In 2000 her mother took her own life. Four years later, her only brother died in an automobile collision. “Bible study helps me with past hurts,” said Diaz, who now is a member of Grace Baptist Church in Killeen. “God is in control of all things. “I didn’t know if I could achieve this,” she continued, speaking in her A&M office surrounded by books, plaques, photos of her grandparents and images of positivity. “I learned to have faith. Hurts come back frequently but my relationship with God has helped me.”

Teacher Lawyer Diaz didn’t have her sights set on a teaching career. At first, her thought was to get her bachelor degree, become a teacher and go back to school to get a law degree. But the hand of fate intervened, and while she was a student in 1997 at the University of Wyoming, she was given a job as a lunch monitor and reading apprentice in the UW Lab School. “I remember working with those kids and realizing there was nothing else I’d rather do. They needed me,” she said. She wanted to share her story with her students and be a glimmer of hope that

Dr. Amber Diaz sits in her office at Texas A&M University-Central Texas.

Candy hugs and kisses await all who enter Diaz’s office.

they, too, can rise above whatever adversity they may experience in life to become what they want to be. After graduating from UW she was hired by Killeen ISD in 2000 but waited a year to move as she sorted through the pain of losing her mother, and in 2001 she moved for a fresh start. “I always wanted to live in Texas,” she said. She was hired as an English Learner Inclusion teacher for first-grade students. “I teach because there are children out there like me. Without a teacher who is compassionate and caring, they may not succeed. I am aware that I have the strength to make a difference in a child’s life,” she said. “I help them feel like they are a classroom family. We all carry hurts but we’ll be there to support each other.” Recognizing her passion for helping children feel included, regardless of any differences they may have, her former

principal at East Ward Elementary School told her she would have a bigger impact on students in a leadership position, rather than a teacher. Ten years after she received her bachelor degree, Diaz went back to school and earned a Master’s Degree in Education Administration at Texas A&M University-Central Texas. Her first leadership role was assistant principal at Richard E. Cavazos Elementary, before becoming the director of intervention and at-risk students for the Copperas Cove ISD. When she received her doctorate from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, moving into her role as the certification officer and assistant professor for teacher education was a natural progression for her.

Education wish Diaz shares her life with husband, Chris, a fourth-grade teacher at Montague Village Elementary School on Fort Hood. Her 15-year-old son, Kyler, from a previous relationship, lives in Baltimore with his father. As an educator, she has three definitive passions. “Bilingual education is the greatest need we see,” she said. “There are more than 120 different languages. To be biliterate is important. We have children coming from Mexico who are bilingual, but we are not teaching them to be a bilingual educator. They need to be proficient in both languages.” Two other initiatives close to her Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Dr. Amber Diaz discusses teaching techniques with incoming instructors at Texas A&M University-Central Texas.

My Giving Tree Gift Shop & Gallery

121 N. East Street, Ste. B Downtown Belton 254-939-8733 mygivingtree.net

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heart are Rachel’s Challenge and the Jason Foundation, Inc. “Rachel’s Challenge includes a series of student empowering, educator motivating programs and strategies called the “Awaken the Learner Fivestep School Improvement Process” that equips students and adults to create and sustain safe, caring and supportive learning environments essential for academic achievement. The programs are based on the writings and life of 17-year-old Rachel Scott who was the first student killed at Columbine High School in 1999. Rachel left a legacy of reaching out to those who were different, who were picked on by others, or who were new at her school. Shortly before her death she wrote, “I have this theory that if one person can go out of their way to show compassion, then it will start a chain reaction of the same. People will never know how far a little kindness can go.” Source: http:// www.rachelschallenge.org. The Jason Foundation, Inc. (JFI) “is dedicated to the prevention of the ‘Silent Epidemic’ of youth suicide through educational and awareness programs that equip young people, educators/youth workers and parents with the tools and resources to help identify and assist atrisk youth.” Source: http://jasonfoundation.com. “As educators, we need to teach chil-

dren to dream big, be compassionate and make friends built on that knowledge. Build on it before it’s too late,” Diaz said. If you think a child is in trouble don’t look away. Don’t make excuses. Had my life experiences been different, I don’t know if I’d have the empathy I have as someone who hasn’t experienced a suicide. Life experiences helped me to become the woman I am today.” Diaz said she is grateful to be in a position where she is shaping the teachers to go out in the world and become great teachers. “Another thing I try to enforce with college students is that we truly have to know those children’s hearts, passions and how they think,” she said. “Continue to grow with them to give them what they need. Take a critical look, regardless of race, poverty level or social barriers.” It’s important for new educators to know the “why” they have chosen this career. Diaz cautions that people cannot go into teaching thinking that it’s going to be an easy job and have summers off. “In teaching, you will work weekends during the summer creating lesson plans, learning new teaching strategies; you don’t go into the teaching profession for the money because there are many other jobs that pay more without a college degree. You become a teacher to make a difference in the lives of students.”

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Connecting

careers Story by Catherine Hosman Photos by Mitchel Barrett

alking into the paneled office of Dr. Glenda O. Barron, president of Temple College, it’s hard not to feel just a bit intimidated. For a moment, it feels like being called into the principal’s office for an unknown offense. Within moments those “déjà vu” feelings give way to a smile and firm handshake as Dr. Barron greets her guest. “My name is Glenda,” she says, with her East Texas drawl and sincere smile. Once inside her realm, two of her vice presidents, Dr. Van Miller, administrative services and CFO and Dr. Mark A. Smith, educational services and chief academic officer, are wrapping up a meeting with her in the conference room adjacent to her office. While waiting to speak with her, an observatory sweep of her office reveals photos of family, prestigious commendations, her degrees, and a few leopards, which were revealed later as the school mascot, and the courthouse in Shelby County near her hometown of Joaquin, Texas. Prior to her position as president of Temple College, Barron spent 20 years working for the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board in Austin, where she served as the associate commissioner for Participation and Success; and assistant commissioner for Community and Technical Colleges. “My favorite job was as assistant commissioner for community and technical colleges,” she said. When her current position opened eight years ago, Barron immediately put her name in the hat. “I got my start at a community college (Panola College). I can’t imagine working in any other position in higher education,” she said.

Opportunity didn’t come knocking on many doors in Joaquin, so Glenda, who said she was named by her sister’s second-grade class when her father joked that they had run out of girl names, took opportunity into her own hands.

With previous positions at Austin Community College and Lamar State College-Port Arthur, in addition to her 20 years as an associate commissioner, she thought, “Why not end a career on a campus?” She fulfilled the application process, which included a cover letter stating what a president would do on campus, and was one of the top five candidates. After spending a full day on campus meeting with the board of trustees, executive committee, vice presidents and participating in community and faculty and staff forums, she was certain this was the campus where she wanted to work. “The public should know how dedicated our faculty is in helping students become successful,” Barron said. “We talk about numbers of students enrolled, but I don’t think it comes across that when you are a student at Temple College, we will help you get to wherever it is you want to go.” Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

A history of higher education Founded in 1926, Temple College was the result of the joint efforts of civic, business, and educational leaders. In the early years, the college was operated by the public school system, and classes were held in the basement of the old Temple High School building. As the student body grew, so did the need for a permanent campus. A separate junior college district was established in 1955, enabling the college to build a new facility. The college moved to its present location in south Temple in 1957. Source: http://templejc. edu/about/history/ But like so many community colleges across the country, the focus was on getting students enrolled. “Anyone can get a higher education through the doors of a community college,” said Barron. “But there was not a lot of dialogue on how to keep them in, nor how to achieve goals. There was more of a concern about being open access. It’s equally important, in addition to getting them into higher education, how to help them become successful.” Since taking on the post as president of Temple College, Barron’s mission is to help students achieve their goals in this new era of community colleges. She said today it goes beyond just getting students in. Because of the vast diversity of students, ranging from those straight out of high school to stay-at-home moms who want to learn a new skill to seniors and foreign students, and the unemployed looking to “retool” their job skills, support systems that reach students with different backgrounds and needs must be in place. “If a student was good in high school, the need for tutoring is less than somebody who was a stay-at-home-mom looking to get back into the workplace,” she said. “People 30 years old and older need a different kind of help — the level of assistance is different.” Barron said some of the students who enroll may have made it through high school but “didn’t get it.” In a community college environment, they can reach their goals. “Our job is to help students where they are, help them get to success,” she said. The community college experience at Temple College has changed since it first opened its doors in 1926. Several buildings have been added to better serve students and the school now partners 38

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Dr. Glenda O. Barron relaxes by riding her Yamaha TTT225 Trail Bike on her property.

with Texas State Technical in Waco and Texas A&M University-Central Texas to serve eastern Williamson County. Temple College’s service area includes the eastern part of Bell County, most of Milam County, and east Williamson County. An Achieving the Dream community college (www.achievingthedream.org) in conjunction with the Lumina Foundation, (www.luminafoundation.org), Temple College helps students select the right classes to help them achieve success in whatever occupational direction they choose. “We will continue to grow in the health professions as demand continues to climb,” Barron said. “We are ready to serve students who know what they want

and help them get their two years behind them.” In addition to the expansion of curriculum, particularly technical courses that can place a student in a career at the end of the two years, TC employs student advisors who are now known as student success coaches. “Coaches identify who the students are and keep them on the path,” Smith said. “It’s a guided pathway. Students identify where they want to be. Our goal is to keep them on that path.” Walking the administrative halls of Temple College, it’s easy to see how this school meets Barron’s personality. Not stuffy at all, one office is completely taken

Dr. Glenda Barron visits with students in the student lounge. From left are Lyka Rose Bonrud, Dr. Barron, Immanuel Thomas, and Nicole Berheim.

over by toy leopards that cover three full bookshelves, and leopard print decor, including a leopard lamp shade. Another office, Smith’s, holds shelves of toys from “Monster’s Inc.,” a collection started by his now 14-year-old daughter. But don’t let the levity misdirect. When it comes to the business of helping students achieve, she is focused and exercises her authority within the realms of the college’s team of directors. “These are all people who really care (about students),” she said. “I couldn’t imagine not working here at all.”

East Texas Roots Glenda Oats Barron grew up outside of Joaquin. She was the sixth child born to William Earl and Emma Grant Oates, and the fifth girl. Her father worked in the oil fields and her mother was a stayat-home mom. Their house was a dog run layout that they eventually closed in. They didn’t have indoor plumbing until she was in sixth grade. Looking back now she sees that her family was poor, but she never realized it Continued

Glenda Barron celebrated Easter with her grandchildren. From left, counterclockwise, her husband, Paul (Pops); granddaughter Kinsley, 7, grandson, Zane, 3, and Barron, a.k.a. Momma G to her grandchildren. Courtesy photo TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Dr. Glenda O. Barron meets with Dr. Van Miller, left, vice president, administrative services and CFO, and Dr. Mark A. Smith, vice president of educational services and chief academic officer.

at the time. “We lived on the land. We raised everything we needed. We had a milk cow, raised pigs, chickens and every kind of vegetable known to man that my mother canned or froze,” she said. “We had sugar cane, fruit trees, we didn’t lack for anything. I had no clue we were poor.” Her parents were already middle age when she was born, but in many ways that worked to her advantage. By the time she was in high school, her dad had retired. Being an active East Texas girl, young Glenda played every sport a girl could play and attended high school sporting events. “My daddy was the one who would pick us up (from sports events) and take us home. He took us to every football game and sat in the gym for basketball and volleyball games,” she said, suppressing tears of memories of her dad who passed away in 1985, at age 85. Opportunity didn’t come knocking on many doors in Joaquin, so Glenda, who said she was named by her sister’s second-grade class when her father joked that they had run out of girl names, took 40

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opportunity into her own hands and found her way to Panola Junior College, where she earned a secretarial certificate. She spent a full year at Panola and supported her academic career by working at the local hardware store as a bookkeeper. “I worked five and a half days a week, but I took every evening course I could.” But she wanted more. She knew that if she wanted to teach at the college level, she needed bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Already attached to her future husband, Paul, whom she met in elementary school, but didn’t start dating until the 10th grade, in later years when the subject of marriage came up she told him she wouldn’t get married until she achieved her bachelor’s degree. With the help of her sister and brother-in-law, she moved to Houston and attended the University of Houston, where she earned her Bachelor of Science while working as a secretary in the school’s biophysical sciences department; and when she was 25, she married Paul. But neither marriage nor motherhood deterred her from her goals. She earned her Master’s of Education degree

from McNeese State University in Lake Charles and her PhD from the University of Texas. Now this wife, mother of two sons, Jud and Cade, and grandmother of two, Kinsley, 7 and Zane, 3, enjoys a full career at Temple College and a full family life on the 10 acres she shares with husband. When she’s not working and needs a little time to unwind, she takes out her Yamaha TTR225 Trail Bike and hits the trails on her property. “When I was living in Houston, my brother-in-law Ken often went to the Sam Houston National Forest where he liked to ride his dirt bike,” she said. “My brother-in-law, David, owned a motorcycle shop in Cleburne and gave me a Yamaha Enduro bike. It was a very heavy bike. I knocked the lights off in less than a week by hitting trees. She traded the Enduro in for a Hodaka Super Rat, a much lighter bike she bought in 1973. She still owns it but it sits in storage. Her ride of choice today is her Yamaha. “As long as the battery is charged, to de-stress, I go out and crank it up,” she said.

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Weekend College Central Texas College offers programs to working students Story by Catherine Hosman Photos by Mitchel Barrett and CRAIG LIFTON

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ssociate Dean Amy RandolphChernis, of CTC’s Evening and Weekend College has been in Killeen for only four months. She is trying to get used to the Texas heat, which is quite different from the four seasons of Elkhart, Ind., where she was born and raised. A U.S. Army veteran and retired military spouse, she may be new to Killeen, but she is not new to Central Texas College. Randolph-Chernis has enjoyed a career with CTC that began in 2003. She was the site representative in Germany for the Europe campus. She was also the director for the CTC Continental Campus at Fort Riley, Kan., and Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. So it seems only natural that this wife, mother of two and young grandmother who used to move around the globe with her husband, Sean, set down roots in Killeen to continue her career with CTC. “The Evening and Weekend College is a new initiative providing students the opportunity to start and finish certificates and associates degrees entirely in the evening or weekend hours,” Randolph-Chernis said. Weekend and evening college allows students who work during the day, or work a split shift, the opportunity to continue their higher education. “Students can work on stackable certificates that build toward a degree and can lead to more employment opportunities.” The fall semester began Aug. 24 and runs through Dec. 11. Currently, class lengths run from three to 16 weeks with flexible start dates.” Randolph-Chernis said the success of the program depends on the student base. At the end of each term they will survey and poll students so instructors can learn what the students want. “We will form an advisory council and gather information from the community and add courses according to student need,” added Jan Anderson, dean of CTC’s central campus. “We want to accommodate students. We want to help students reach their educational goals,” she said. “We feel we hired the right person in Amy. She is gregarious, she has some moxie and she is good with students.”

Potential Central Texas College student Richard Aguillon, of Troy, talks with Associate Dean Amy Randolph-Chernis and Jenilee Williams of CTC about all the available programs. Randolph-Chernis is the dean of the Evening and Weekend College program at CTC, and discussed the program during a recent open house in Killeen.

“Students can work on stackable certificates that build toward a degree and can lead to more employment opportunities.” — Associate Dean Amy Randolph-Chernis Late bloomer Randolph-Chernis admits she didn’t know what she wanted to be when she grew up, so right after graduating from Northwood High School in Nappanee in Elkhart County, Ind., she joined the Army where she worked as a photolithographer. “I walked past a recruiter’s office in

the mall. Stepped in, and the rest is history,” she said. That history includes meeting her husband of 26 years, Sean, while they were both stationed at Fort Bragg, N.C., in the 1980s. They were in the same battalion and had seen each other around, but he thought she was already married. Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Associate Dean Amy Randolph-Chernis talks with Scott and Nathaniel Thelen of Briggs, about programs available to them at Central Texas College. Randolph-Chernis is the dean of the Evening and Weekend College program at CTC, and was involved recently in an informational event for people to attend on the campus of CTC.

“I wore my class ring on my ring finger,” she said. They were doing field exercises and were at the motor pool when they both queued up in the food line. They ended up face to face; she was wearing combat glasses. She admits that being in the field didn’t lean toward the kind of look a girl wants when she is about to meet someone she has liked from a distance. Despite the lack of lipstick and hairspray on her part, something clicked between these two soldiers. After a yearlong courtship they married when she was 20. She served three years and moved about the globe with her career Army husband. This stay-at-home mom raised her two sons on the go while following her husband to his different posts. 44

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“Being in the Army teaches discipline, interaction with diverse groups of people. I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I didn’t know anything about going to college, so I saw a counselor. ... I knew I could go to college on weekends or evenings and could get as good as an education as the kids going to school (during the day).” — Associate Dean Amy Randolph-Chernis By the time she was 30, both her boys were in school and her army sweetheart was at her side. She wanted to pursue a college de-

gree but wasn’t sure which direction she wanted to go. In 2003, her husband was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., Continued

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Associate Dean Amy Randolph-Chernis, left and Jan Anderson, dean of the Central Texas College Central Campus, discuss the lineup for the first class of weekend college.

where Drury University had a campus. “Being in the Army teaches discipline, interaction with diverse groups of people,” she said. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I didn’t know anything about going to college, so I saw a counselor.” Encouraged by her counselor, Randolph enrolled in a history class. “I took a history class and loved it,” she said. She also studied English. “I knew I could go to college on weekends or evenings and could get as good as an education as the kids going to school (during the day).” She credits Dr. Midge McGee, professor of history and Ms. Lin Paddock, professor of English, for helping steer her in the right direction. “I was doing this because I wanted to, not because someone told me to,” Randolph-Chernis said. “I was ready to do at 30 what I was not prepared for 46

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“(Central Texas College) is a wonderful place to work for people who want to do exciting things. We are experts in packaging education to fit global locations and student needs.” — Dean Jan Anderson at 18.” She earned her bachelor’s degree in English and history from Drury University in 2003. Soon after her husband was

reassigned to Germany, and she enrolled in a masters of ancient history at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia as an external student, visiting Sydney twice to work on her thesis. By 2006, she had earned her masters in ancient history. Randolph-Chernis said once she worked for CTC she always wanted to work for CTC. “It’s very laid back, flexible. Everyone at CTC is so passionate about military students. “They work 60 to 80 hours a week but still show up for class. They also have the option to take online classes as well,” Randolph-Chernis said. Dean Anderson, who has been with CTC 36 years and has held many different jobs said, “I agree with Amy. It is a wonderful place to work for people who want to do exciting things. “We are experts in packaging education to fit global locations and student needs.”

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SEPTEMBER 2015 | TEX APPEAL

HEALING HANDS UMHB’s dean of the College of Nursing touches lives, produces skilled, ethical nurses

By JESSA MCCLURE Photos by JULIE NABOURS

s students come and go through the lobby of the Isabelle Rutherford Meyer nursing building on the campus of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, talking, laughing and exchanging notes, a smiling woman enters the room from her office on the first floor. Her lab coat swings back and forth as she weaves in and out of the chattering nursing students. They recognize her as Dr. Sharon Souter, dean of the college of nursing, but also as the heartbeat of a program that is growing by leaps and bounds. “She always has a smile on her face,” said UMHB nursing student, Deanna Dawdy. “She’s never in a bad mood. She’s always positive, which is very encouraging to all of us.” But Souter is more than just a smiling face and an important person who sits at a desk. She teaches classes, she gets to know the students and she helps them when they are struggling. “I was having a hard time in my pediatric rotation,” Dawdy said. “She gave me some great advice. With her help, I was able to pass the class.” Finding time to help individual students is important to Souter’s overall vision for the nursing department. “I work with students early in the program and then towards the end when they’re getting ready to take their licensure exam,” Souter said. “I think that’s important. I want to be approachable.” Souter’s passion for teaching and guiding students in their pursuit of a nursing career first began when she was working as an emergency room nurse at the Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City. She had initially been interested in medicine, but when her mom got sick, she

Dr. Sharon Souter, dean of the College of Nursing at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton with student nurses Joseph Salley and John Rodriguez.

wanted a quicker road to a lucrative career. “I really liked nursing, and when I started working in the ER I liked it even more,” she said. “The busier it got, the more I liked it. I liked balancing lots of plates in the air at the same time. I was pretty good at it. I could keep all of the patients straight and all of the doctors happy.” Even though she loved managing chaos in the ER, she knew she was developing a passion for teaching. Whether she was helping to acclimate new nurses at the hospital or teach Sunday school, Souter came alive when she saw her “students” excelling. “I loved the idea of a nursing education because if you can effect change in a bunch of students to practice like you philosophically want to practice, then you touch untold numbers of people.”

Touching lives and producing skilled, ethical nurses is something she has strived to do ever since; first as the BSN director at a college in Carlsbad, N.M., and now as the dean of the college of nursing at UMHB. “When I was talking with the university (UMHB) about coming here, I told them I wanted to run a program where I could make a difference and set the tone,” she said. As numbers continue to grow in the nursing program—from classes with 40 students to multiple classes of 60 or more — and more and more compliments rolled in from clinical partners where UMHB nursing students complete training hours, it is clear that Souter has impacted the nursing field. “We have many people come back Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Dr. Sharon Souter, dean of the College of Nursing at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton teaches CPR to student nurses Joseph Salley and John Rodriguez.

and say that UMHB graduates are way different than other ones,” she said. “I think this comes from what the faculty and I instill in them—that being a nurse isn’t just a job, it’s about caring.” Souter believes that the holistic approach to care is what sets the UMHB nursing students and graduates apart from other nurses who come from larger programs in the state. “We don’t want the students to see the patient as someone with liver problems,” she said. “We want them to think of them as a person with a family and try to meet their needs.” Much of Souter’s philosophy comes from her Christian perspective, which is supported and maintained by the university, which has been affiliated with the Baptist church since it was chartered in 1845. 50

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Along with praying before tests, Souter and the faculty try to also integrate faith into their interactions with students by simply loving them and showing them they care about their success. “There may be people who come here who aren’t real believers, but after they’re exposed to us for a while, I think they at least get a glimmer,” she said. “And that’s our mission, too — to love on people.” Not only do the students practice loving and caring for each other, but they also demonstrate a loving environment when they are honing their skills at Baylor Scott & White Hospital, Temple VA Hospital, and in the state-of-the-art simulation hospital that was built as part of the department’s expansion into a new building in 2013.

“We have truly innovative classrooms and great practice arenas,” Souter said. “It’s one thing to say, set the oxygen at two liters and they actually have to go over there and do that, as opposed to having them imagine where they would put it on a picture on the wall.” The dean also said along with giving the students a chance to practice their skills in simulated hospitals and home health scenarios, she wants to instill in her students that being a nurse is more than a job, it’s a calling. “I think it’s important for them to understand that one is indeed a nurse 24/7,” she said. “I still have people from my home church in Carlsbad, N.M., call to ask me about a pill. You can’t just turn nursing on and off. You are assessing all the time. You’re a nurse all the time.”

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

SEPTEMBER 2015 | TEX APPEAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING Section

Marc A. Nigliazzo, Ph.D., Inaugural President

Texas A&M University - Central Texas 1001 Leadership Place, Killeen 254-519-5400 | tamuct.edu

Texas A&M University–Central Texas was born in the spirit of community cooperation in 2009 as a member of The Texas A&M University System, one of the largest systems of higher education in the nation. A&M–Central Texas is a military friendly, upper-level institution offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees for life’s next chapter. The student population at A&M–Central Texas is diverse and growing, currently at more than 2,500. “It’s truly an exciting time to be a Warrior, and to know that when you receive your bachelor’s or master’s degree, you will have also participated in the building of a new university,” said Dr. Marc A. Nigliazzo, President of A&M-Central Texas. “Because our success, like that of all quality institutions of higher learning, will be ultimately measured by the success of our students.” As a GoArmyEd partner, the university provides a virtual gateway for active-duty soldiers seeking tuition assistance for both faceto-face and distance-learning courses. In addition, A&M–Central Texas is one of only a few universities in the country to offer the VetSuccess on Campus programs in partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs, which provides assistance to veteran-students during their transition to college life. The university was recently designated as a Purple Heart University, honorably recognizing the service, sacrifice, and unwavering allegiance to our nation of those members of the student body who are Purple Heart recipients. Last year, A&M-Central Texas implemented a guaranteed tuition and mandatory fee plan that allows students to effectively plan for the cost of their education encouraging degree completion for all, with an option to accelerate the time-to-degree for

undergraduates. A bachelor’s degree tuition cap was also created, so that all undergraduate students, regardless of residency, may choose to take advantage of a flat tuition option that will cap tuition at 12 SCH (i.e. if a student chooses to take more than 12 SCH in a semester, the charge for tuition and mandatory fees will be for 12 SCH). Courses are offered at a beautiful new campus in Killeen, online, and at several convenient sites, including Fort Hood and Hutto, to accommodate both full-time and part-time students. The innovative campus recently expanded with the addition of Warrior Hall, a state-of-the-art facility that houses the university’s first science laboratories, the college of education, the university library, student affairs, and a counseling center. A&M-Central Texas has also been named one of the best colleges in the nation to work for, according to a new survey by The Chronicle of Higher Education. “We’re blessed with a beautiful new campus on a gorgeous piece of land, but the heart of the University is its students, faculty, and staff, and the commitment they have all made to build an exceptional place to work and study,” said Nigliazzo.

“

Because our success, like that of all quality institutions of higher learning, will be ultimately measured by the success of our students.

”

Marc Nigliazzo, President TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING Section

Central Texas College

Central Texas College 6200 West Central Texas Expressway, Killeen 254-526-7161Texas College Central

6200 West Central Texas Expressway, Killeen Value, convenience and flexibility for Students of the Real World 254-526-7161 CTC a public, open-admission community Value,isconvenience and flexibility for Students ofcollege the Realoffering World associate degrees and certificate programs to provide students skills to begin a career transition from a two-year to a four-year degree with an upperCTC is or a to public, open-admission community college offering associate level institution. degrees and certificate programs to provide students skills to begin a career or to transition from a two-year to a four-year degree with an upperServing Local High School Students level institution. Central Texas College is the top choice of local high school graduates— nearly in fiHigh ve begin their college career with us. Many students take Servingone Local School Students advantage of dual enrollment beginhigh earning credit Central Texas College is the top courses choice oftolocal schoolcollege graduates— while still in high school, and this year marks the opening of the Killeen nearly one in five begin their college career with us. Many students take Independent District Early CollegetoHigh School (ECHS) on the CTC advantage of School dual enrollment courses begin earning college credit campus. Through this program, 150 carefully selected students will begin while still in high school, and this year marks the opening of the Killeen high school this yearDistrict and notEarly only College walk at High their School high school graduation in Independent School (ECHS) on the CTC four years, but also graduate with an associate’s degree. campus. Through this program, 150 carefully selected students will begin high school this year and not only walk at their high school graduation in Helping Working Advance four years, but alsoAdults graduate with an associate’s degree. Our new weekend and evening college makes certificate and degree programs availableAdults to working adults, allowing them to prepare for a new Helping Working Advance career or advance in their current Moremakes than 40certifi degree certifi cate Our new weekend and evening job. college cateandand degree programs are available entirely online, adding extra fl exibility for working programs available to working adults, allowing them to prepare for a new adults. career or advance in their current job. More than 40 degree and certificate programs are available entirely online, adding extra flexibility for working Serving adults. Our Military Community Our 50 year history includes service to military students, veterans and family Our proximity to Fort Hood, Texas, also contributes to a Servingmembers. Our Military Community rich diversity on our campus in Killeen. Our 50 year history includes service to military students, veterans and family members. Our proximity to Fort Hood, Texas, also contributes to a Many of the on college’s first students nearly 50 years ago were soldiers rich diversity our campus in Killeen. participating in “Project Transition,” designed to retrain military personnel 54

Many of the college’s first students nearly 50 years ago were soldiers SEPTEMBER 2015 | TEX APPEAL participating in “Project Transition,” designed to retrain military personnel

Central Texas College

exiting the service for civilian careers after Vietnam. During the current military downsizing, CTC is again involved in working with Fort Hood and transitioning soldiers increase their employability. exiting the service fortocivilian careers after Vietnam. During the current military downsizing, CTC is again involved in working with Fort Hood and Our locationssoldiers on military installations the world and online course transitioning to increase theiraround employability. offerings help military personnel and their family members achieve their educational Our locationsgoals. on military installations around the world and online course offerings help military personnel and their family members achieve their Community Outreach and Support educational goals. In addition to college opportunities, Central Texas College offers adult basic education and anand online high school. Each year, nearly 30,000 Community Outreach Support school children and adults enjoy attending shows at the Mayborn Science In addition to college opportunities, Central Texas College offers adult Theater, and many families visit our campus to relax and enjoy the beautiful basic education and an online high school. Each year, nearly 30,000 surroundings at and the duck school children adultspond. enjoy attending shows at the Mayborn Science Theater, and many families visit our campus to relax and enjoy the beautiful Our Continuing Education department offers non-credit personal and surroundings at the duck pond. professional development programs for all ages and you’ll hear us broadcasting highEducation school football gamesoffers on KNCT radio. Viewers Our Continuing department non-credit personalenjoy and local and national television programming on college-owned KNCT professional development programs for all ages and you’ll hear us television. broadcasting high school football games on KNCT radio. Viewers enjoy local and national television programming on college-owned KNCT Accredited television. Central Texas College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate degrees and Accredited certifi completion. This gives students full confiofdence the Centralcates TexasofCollege is accredited by theour Southern Association Colleges courses you take at CTC will be eligible for federal fi nancial aid programs and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate degrees and and will transfer other our colleges. certifithose catescourses of completion. Thisto gives students full confidence the courses you take at CTC will be eligible for federal financial aid programs For log ontotowww.ctcd.edu or call 526-7161 and more those information, courses will transfer other colleges. For more information, log onto www.ctcd.edu or call 526-7161

SPECIAL ADVERTISING Section

Your Name Here, Title

St. Mary’s Catholic School 1019 South 7th Street, Temple 254-778-8171 | stmarys-temple.org

Holy Trinity Catholic High School 6608 West Adams Avenue, Temple 254-771-0787 | holytrinitychs.org

Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you will make on behalf of your child. When you choose Catholic schools for your children, you are surrounding them with a community that shares your faith and your values. Here, your children will learn to shine – with a light they will carry with them into the world. St. Mary’s Catholic School educates the whole child, academically and spiritually. St. Mary’s standards of excellence reach across the curriculum and permeate all areas of learning. The Catholic identity is strong and evident in the daily lives of the students, faculty, staff and family members of St. Mary’s Catholic School. Parents work in partnership with the teachers in the education of their children. St. Mary’s has been given the gift of providing quality Catholic education to our students. The small class sizes, accelerated curriculum and affordable tuition are all reasons that families choose St. Mary’s Catholic School. Catholic education is an investment in the priceless future of your child. Upon graduation from St. Mary’s, students attend Holy Trinity Catholic High School. Holy Trinity was established as an independent school by a group of committed parents in 1997. Today, Holy Trinity offers more than 15 advanced placement

and dual-credit courses and strives to continue its reputation as a TAPPS academic powerhouse, winning nine academic state championships in the past 11 years. Holy Trinity offers an enriching spiritual life, a challenging academic curriculum, and a complete extracurricular program. These three components make Holy Trinity a school that seeks to educate the whole person. The mission of Holy Trinity Catholic High School is to educate the Christian Leaders of Tomorrow; we seek to develop the intellect, educate the heart, and form each student’s character by giving witness to Gospel values. Now entering its 19th year, Holy Trinity draws students from 20 different zip codes as it is the only source of secondary Catholic education between Austin and Waco. Holy Trinity seeks to provide a high-quality, college preparatory education for students from diverse geographic, ethnic, socioeconomic and religious backgrounds as they prepare for higher education, future careers, and continued community and religious service. The school continues to be one of the most affordable private, college preparatory schools in Central Texas.

“

Founded in faith. Sustained in spirit.

”

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexHealth

Say ouch: Vaccinations aren’t just for children

Story and photos by Sharon White

hile college kids are busy decorating dorms, reviewing class schedules and meeting new roommates, they shouldn’t forget to make sure all their immunizations are up-to-date as they enter those hallowed halls of higher learning. Even though most vaccinations are given in early childhood or early adolescence, college students and young adults need specific immunizations, too. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, all incoming first-time or transfer students (21 years or younger) are required by law to receive a meningococcal vaccination (or booster, if it has been longer than five years) at least 10 days prior to the first day of class (or 10 days prior to moving into campus housing). Students also are expected to have completed their primary series of childhood immunizations. “It is extremely important that college students are current on their vaccinations. Prevention beats intervention any day, in my book.” says registered nurse Debbie Rosenberger, coordinator of health services for the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. She highly recommends college students receive hepatitis A and HPV series vaccines, and a seasonal flu shot. A supplemental meningitis vaccine that provides additional protection (MenB) also is available and can be discussed with a health care provider. “Students live in close quarters and crowded living conditions, and it’s very common for them to share bathrooms, showers, drinks and even towels. At this age — middle school through college — kids are likely to invade others’ personal space/belongings more than any other time in their lives. Kids hear their mom’s voice saying, ‘wash your hands, before eating or after using the restroom,’ but they don’t always comply.” Moving to a 5,000-plus student-body campus is like moving to a new community. Unlike friends you’ve gone to school with your entire life, you will now be encountering thousands of new people you never met before. It’s like going on a cruise ship with hundreds of strangers 56

SEPTEMBER 2015 | TEX APPEAL

Nurse Debbie Rosenberger provides a wealth of health and wellness information to students at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton.

“At this age — middle school through college — kids are likely to invade others’ personal space/ belongings more than any other time in their lives.”

— Debbie Rosenberger, R.N.

Coordinator of Health Services for the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and their germs. According to the National Meningitis Association, approximately 600-1,000 people contract meningococcal disease in the U.S. each year. Twenty-one percent of

these cases occur in preteens, teens and young adults ages 11-24. About one in 10 people carry meningococcal bacteria in their nose or throat without showing any signs or symptoms of the disease. These

Nurse Debbie Rosenberger administers a tuberculosis skin test to an incoming student at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton.

DID YOU KNOW? Meningococcal meningitis (MM) is a potentially fatal bacterial disease that can cause inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, an infection of the blood, or both. This illness is transmitted through the exchange of secretions such as spit or saliva. The bacteria can spread through close or lengthy contact with an infected person; living in close quarters, sharing food, kissing, or coughing/sneezing without covering the mouth and nose. Symptoms include vomiting, headache, fever, rash, stiff neck, disorientation, and sensitivity to light. Meningococcal disease moves rapidly through the body in a matter of hours of initial symptoms. Potential complications of meningitis include brain damage, hearing loss, learning disabilities, kidney damage, limb amputation and even death. One in seven adolescent and young adults who contract the disease will die from it. (Collegevaccinerequirements.com) Note: Meningococcal meningitis (MM) vaccines are available at the Bell County Health Department, Walgreens, CVS and H-E-B pharmacies, or through your family health care provider. people can unknowingly transmit the bacteria to others. The disease is spread

through the exchange of secretions during close contact such as kissing or coughing

on someone. Rosenberger advises that if you, or someone you know, suspects they might have meningitis, to call 911 and limit contact with others. High fever, nuchal rigidity (painful neck), and a rash are common indications. “Symptoms of meningitis resemble those of the flu, and can only be diagnosed by lab testing,” Rosenberger said. “But one possible hallmark of meningitis is excruciating pain when you touch your chin to your chest. This disease can go from flu-like symptoms to life-threatening very quickly.” College and university requirements for other student vaccines vary from institution to institution. Private universities may have different requirements than public universities. For more information on vaccine requirements, contact: Collegevaccinerequirements.com or go to your college/university health website. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

LULAC Foundation reaches Central Texas students in need By Sharon WHITE

ormer Killeen Mayor Raul Villaronga has a vested interest — in youth. It all began when he retired. A few years after leaving a decorated 25year military career, the former U.S. Army Colonel and industrial engineer entered local politics in Killeen. Two years as a city council member led to three terms as mayor, followed by four years as Killeen associate municipal judge. His primary judicial responsibility: juvenile court. “Missteps are all part of the learning process,” he said. “I feel that given the opportunity, most kids will do well.” Villaronga will tell you that one of the most rewarding accomplishments during his six-year tenure as mayor was the creation of the Killeen Youth Advisory Commission. Founded in 1993, the YAC’s purpose is to serve as liaison to the Killeen City Council and assist in minimizing community problems relating to youth, while encouraging positive growth and development. Today Villaronga is the chairman of the nonprofit League of United Latin American Citizens Council 4535 Foundation. The LULAC Foundation is an organization that raises college scholarship funds for students in need. Since 2002, the LULAC Foundation has distributed $150,000 in scholarship aid. (Each scholarship is granted in the amount of $1,000.) Last year, the foundation awarded $13,000 in scholarships to Killeen and Copperas Cove Independent School District graduating seniors. Additionally, several former recipients, currently enrolled at Texas colleges, applied and received funds.

LULAC scholarships Graduating seniors from Killeen and Copperas Cove ISDs are eligible for LULAC scholarships and can obtain applications from their counselors. Students must submit a 200-word essay, their official high school transcript, and a completed application. Scholarships are awarded based primarily on need, to at 58

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“No one is an island. We all depend on each other. It’s our responsibility to stay engaged and give back.”

— Raul Villaronga

least one student per campus. The LULAC Foundation’s Scholarship Committee personally interviews every candidate. “We have a dedicated team that spends months reviewing applications,” Villaronga said. One common interview question asked by the scholarship committee is: Where do you see yourself in 20 years? “This question stuns a lot of kids,” he said. “They have to stop and calculate how old they will actually be in 20 years — they just haven’t ever looked that far ahead. It really makes them think about their future and where they want to go in life.” Before they can receive funds, recipients of LULAC scholarships are required to complete 10 hours of community service, as instructed by the council. This year’s recipients fulfilled their community service requirement by attending weekly citizenship classes. They also worked on an entry that was included in Belton’s annual Fourth of July parade. “Students do not have to be of Hispanic ethnicity to apply for the LULAC scholarship,” Villaronga said. “LULAC is a civil rights organization which was founded in Corpus Christi in 1929 to combat discrimination against Hispanics. Our scholarship program is open to students of all ethnicities. You don’t fight discrimination with discrimination.” The majority of scholarship money comes from private donors, although there are some corporate donors like Metroplex Health System. Metroplex funds two scholarships each year, specifically for students going into health-related fields.

Raul Villaronga awards a certificate to scholarship recipient Nelsie Valenzuela of Shoemaker High School at the LULAC Scholarship Banquet in April 2014. Since 2002, the LULAC Foundation has distributed $150,000 in scholarship aid to local high school and college students.

“The LULAC scholarship has meant more to me than words can describe. I do not have a lot of help with school expenses, so every penny is a lifesaver.” — Ashley Gongora This year, the LULAC Foundation will also host a 5/10k Fun Run in October to raise money for scholarships. Ashley Gongora, 23, a finance major at Texas A&M University Central Texas, received a LULAC scholarship in 2014, then reapplied and received another scholarship this year to help meet college expenses. “The LULAC scholarship has meant more to me than words can describe. I do not have a lot of help with school expenses, so every penny is a lifesaver,” Gongora said. “Not only will this (scholarship)

mean something today, but down the road when I finish my degree and move along with my career.” LULAC scholarships are only available to high school students in the Killeen and Copperas Cove School Districts. “We had to limit outreach and concentrate on our local area,” Villaronga said. “It would be impossible to extend our program any further.” But Villaronga highly encourages other organizations to create their own scholarship programs adding, “It takes a real commitment from your community.”

Get involved For more information on LULAC, scholarships and events, go to: www.LULAC4535.org Retirement doesn’t always mean relaxing, as Villaronga will attest: “I’m working harder now than I ever did before.” He still leads a full life of service. And one of his greatest rewards is hearing from kids he met for the first time years ago, in the juvenile courtroom, who say, “I was a kid in your court … and you gave me a chance … now I have a job and a college degree.” “No one is an island,” he said. “We all depend on each other. It’s our responsibility to stay engaged and give back.” For him, it seems, service is an integral part of life, no matter what your age. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

TexAdventures

Keep cool at Krause Springs

By Fred Afflerbach Photos courtesy of Rob Peoples

t’s a blistering hot July day and a caravan of Jeeps and pickups, sedans and SUVs, blaze a trail down a gravel road, kicking up dust as they roll past withered, brown hay fields. Around a corner, the vehicles rumble across a cattle guard and pass under an archway. Car doors slam and excited folks from across Texas unload ice chests, floats and beach towels. A cool, green oasis, a respite from oppressive triple-digit temperatures, is only a short walk away. Welcome to Krause Springs, a picturesque swimming hole in Burnet County. Towering cypress trees. Deep shade. A waterfall cascading from above. Cool spring water bubbling up from below. Children squealing with delight. A teenager dangling from a rope swing splashes into the pool. “It’s awesome. It’s absolutely beautiful and the water is perfect. You got the butterfly garden and all that foliage,” said Tobin Davis, a mother of two from Waxahachie who was relaxing before a concrete picnic table with two water pistols sitting on it. “It’s privately owned, which makes it even more fun. It’s just amazing and it’s beautiful. I wish this was in my hometown.” The private parties who own this idyllic retreat are the three Krause brothers, Hugh, David and Terry. A sort of “My Three Sons,” tale, the boys inherited this hydrological marvel in the Texas Hill Country from parents Elton and Jane. In 1955, Elton and Jane Krause bought the 115-acre respite from an aunt. Elton removed the old hog pens and opened the springs to the public. Employing the honor system, they put out a steel wash tub for swimmers to drop a quarter in. From there, things sort of evolved one step at a time. “There was no plan. We had no idea what he (Elton) was doing. As a kid I was wondering,” Hugh Krause said. “In the early 60s, he had this crazy idea . . . and decided to build a swimming pool. We 60

SEPTEMBER 2015 | TEX APPEAL

The rope swing at Krause Springs makes Benjamin Yiapan, a 34-year-old from Austin, feel like a kid again.

had access to water. I don’t know what his grand plan was. We were living in Austin at the time. This was a weekend hobby for him. Just like it turned into the weekend hobby for the three brothers.” The three brothers grew up working and swimming at the springs, helping their father cut brush and build steps and picnic tables. With no budget for advertising, word of mouth spread that a unique swimming hole was nestled in

the cedar thickets and limestone bluffs of Burnet County. Today, a Facebook page celebrates fun times lolling in the spring water and camping nearby. Entering the main gate, swimmers are treated to a butterfly garden, lush with yellow and orange Pride of Barbados flowers, red hibiscus, and numerous ferns. Oscillating sprinklers and trickling water complement the soft ringing of wind Continued

ABOVE: Weekends at Krause Springs this summer have been busy with friends and family dipping into cool water to beat the summer heat. AT LEFT: Ferns growing on a limestone bluff, a waterfall and a cavern make Krause Springs a unique geological phenomenon in Central Texas.

If you go Krause Springs is located 15 miles east of Marble Falls, just off SH 71, near Spicewood. Physical address: 404 Krause Springs Road, Spicewood, Texas 78669. Phone 830-693-4181 or visit www.krausesprings.net. Open 7 days week, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Dogs and glass bottles are not allowed. Swim at your own risk, no lifeguard on duty. Admission: $7 for ages 12 and older, $5 ages 4-11, under age 4 free. Bring cash â&#x20AC;&#x201D; credit cards are not accepted. Overnight camping: $14 ages 12 and older, $6 ages 4-11, under age 4 free. RVs welcome at $14 per unit. Bathrooms and showers are available. TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

Over the last half-century, the Krause family has added features such as this pool, cabana houses and picnic tables, even a venue for weddings at their family property.

chimes four feet tall dangling from tree limbs. An oasis within an oasis. But the action is below, down a steep staircase to a man-made pool perfect for toddlers. Descending more steps and traversing slippery limestone boulders, you are delivered to the natural pools. Water temperature is 68 degrees year-round. According to the Krause Springs website, “Both our manmade and natural pools have some of the cleanest natural Texas spring water flowing through it non-stop, so the water never becomes stagnant.” Krause Springs is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because Native American middens (small fire pits) have been located there. Artifacts, including projectile points and knives made from flint, go back more than 8,000 years. Regarding the hydrology and geology of the springs, Hugh Krause says, “As far as what’s underneath us, all I can tell you, geologists basically said, we’re on top of a phenomenon.” That phenomenon is fed by Little Cypress Creek. According to Gunnar 62

SEPTEMBER 2015 | TEX APPEAL

A butterfly garden offers quiet moments for reflection and complements swimming and sunbathing at Krause Springs.

Brune, author of “Springs of Texas,” in the upper elevations of the creek, water disappears through fractured limestone and travels through a series of aquifers until it comes bubbling and gurgling to the surface at Krause Springs. Cool and clear, the water is naturally filtered when it flows across limestone and through layers of subterranean sand. Little Cypress Creek, eight miles long, flows downhill at a steep grade, up to 20 percent. It empties into Lake Travis at the edge of the Krause property.

A study by the Lower Colorado River Authority, published in 2008, says water quality is “excellent” at Krause Springs. And there is no evidence the springs have run dry, even during the drought of the last several years and the historic drought of the 1950s. Since the 1980s, the Krause brothers have seen a steady increase in swimmers and campers visiting the site where they spent youthful summers and weekends. Last winter, they closed the park for a couple months to rest both themselves and the fragile ecosystem. They plan to take that measure again next January and February. Hugh Krause said he is proud to honor a family tradition, sharing a natural treasure with the public. “It’s just been a family thing to have people walk through our front and back yard,” Krause said. “Summer’s the busy season. We make a little money. In the fall and in the wintertime, we spend it, put it back in the place and make improvements. We can get something done in that two-month period.”

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

ADVERTISERS INDEX Best Wishes Gifts..................................................................................34 American Hearing................................................................................51 Arrow Trailways....................................................................................58 Bell County Museum............................................................................35 Blind & Shutter Gallery.......................................................................51 Brazos Collection..................................................................................45 Centex Pool Service................................................................................5 Central Texas College...........................................................................54 Central Texas Orthodontics.................................................................41 Climate Control...................................................................................47 Curtis Cook Designs............................................................................29 Doctors Express......................................................................................7 Document Solutions.............................................................................25 Dr. Philip Davis Jr., DDS........................................................................9 Eagle Home Mortgage..........................................................................63 English Maids.........................................................................................5 Estacia’s.................................................................................................29 Extraco Banks-Temple/Local.................................................. Back cover Giebel, Dr. Shelley/Healthy Success....................................................17 Giebel, Dr. Shelley/Healthy Success....................................................41 Hallmark Service Co.............................................................................35 Holy Trinity Catholic High School......................................................55 Killeen Area Alliance of Black School Educators................................45 Killeen Overhead Doors.......................................................................47 Lastovica Jewelers..................................................................................51 Lochridge Priest Inc..............................................................................67 Lucky Bebe............................................................................................17 LULAC 4535........................................................................................63 Metroplex Hospital.................................................................................3 My Giving Tree.....................................................................................35 Painting with a Twist..............................................................................7 Paperdoodles.........................................................................................45 Precious Memories..................................................................................5 Scott’s Lawn Care Central Texas..........................................................41 Sewing Basket........................................................................................58 Shoppes on Main in Salado....................................................................5 Solar Centex.........................................................................................45 Taste of Home...................................................................................... 64 Texas A&M Central Texas....................................................................53 Texas Bright Ideas.................................................................................35 Texas Farm Bureau...............................................................................47 The Gin at Nolan Creek Steakhouse.....................................................7 UMHB..................................................................................................17 Union State Bank.................................................................................63 Wayne Benson M.D. P.A. Clinic............................................................2 The Advertisers Index is published for reader convenience. Every effort is made to list information correctly. The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions. 64

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