Tex Appeal | Spring 2021

Spring 2021

Life and Style in Central Texas

LONESOME PINE NURSERY IN TEMPLE

Masters of Woodcraft

A Plant Paradise

SOW’S EAR CUSTOM WOOD WORKS

Counter Culture

PURE DESIGN GIVES SURFACES A UNIQUE FINISH

Iconic Images EARL NOTTINGHAM CAPTURES BEAUTY OF TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Get Gifting!

IDEAS TO MAKE MOM’S DAY

Colonial Property Management

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INDEX

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Jason & Amanda Parker do it all at The Sow’s Ear Custom Wood Works

30

Mike & Kay Lynch offer delights at Earthscapes Garden & Home

36

Sam Maggard of Tonkawa Farm starts Texas Farm Fresh

43

Landscape photographer Earl Nottingham’s iconic career

46

Landscape photographer Earl Nottingham’s work includes this field of wildflowers. | 43

ON THE COVER

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EDITOR'S LETTER CONTRIBUTORS NEIGHBORS Shannon Gowan, Ronald McDonald House Charities SCENE Father Daughter Stroll, Bell County Youth Fair and ”Salado Legends” FLAVOURS Vira Chudasma’s restaurant group on West Adams IN THE SPOTLIGHT Colonial Property Management

4 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

Jeanette Holtman owns Lonesome Pine Nursery in Temple. | 50 Photos by SKEEBO

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THE REVIEW Sweet romances set in Texas in the 1850s & today MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS Shop local and find the perfect present REAL ESTATE PROS & HOME SERVICES BEING CENTRAL TEXAN Randy Pittenger HEALTH & WELLNESS Immune-boosting foods DAYTRIPPIN’ Slice of Heaven in Holland ADVERTISING INDEX

Three Palms Nursery a fresh start for Santiago Gonzalez

50

Explore Jeanette Holtman’s plant paradise at Lonesome Pine Nursery

54

Gary & Eliana Inocencio create custom countertops at Pure Design

58

Operation Deploy Your Dress keeps Army wives in fashion

60

Jonathan & Laura Lee Cobb pursue their passion at Forgotten Film

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FROM THE EDITOR

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appy Spring, Central Texas. It’s been a long, difficult winter, but we made it through and lots of interesting things are blooming on our pages.

Jeanette Holtman of Lonesome Pine Nursery talked with us about what keeps her bringing hand-selected plants and flowers to the area on page 50, Mike and Kay Lynch of Earthscapes Garden & Home showed us their wonderful greenhouse in full bloom on page 30 and Santiago Gonzales told us how he traded in his career in technology for a life among the trees at Three Palms Nursery, page 46.

If you’re looking for farm-to-table fare for your household, Sam Maggard of Tonkawa Farm in Salado can show you how to get the best meat, poultry, fruits, vegetables and dairy products with just a click of your mouse or a touch of your screen on page 36.

JANNA ZEPP Jason and Amanda Parker of The Sow’s Ear editor@ texappealmag.com Custom Wood Works show off their custom 254-774-5266 furniture and the workshop at which it is made on page 26, while Gary Inocencio of Pure Design Countertops shows us what sets his products apart from more traditional countertops on page 54.

We visited Forgotten Film in Belton where Jonathan and Laura Lee Cobb gave us a tour of their vintage photography studio and film restoration business on page 60. And speaking of photography, Earl Nottingham shared his exceptional photo style with us on page 43.

Vira Chudasma, owner of La Riv Kitchen & Bar, 3 West Alehouse & Grill, Sona Wine Bar & Small Plates reveals her newest restaurant and her business philosophy of giving back to her community on page 16, while Carey Stites tells us about immune system-boosting foods that can be made at home on page 70.

Scene shows highlights from the Father Daughter Stroll at Santa Fe Plaza, auditions for ”Salado Legends” and some of the winners from the Bell County Youth Fair on pages 10-14.

When you find some time to unwind, you might want to pick up a new book. Clare Haefner has a couple of suggestions for historical fiction or contemporary romance on page 24.

I sure hope you enjoy reading our stories as much as we have loved bringing them to you in this issue. If you have a story tip for us, let me know at editor@texappealmag.com or call me at 254-774-5266.

Janna Zepp Tex Appeal editor

6 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

Tex Appeal Life & Style in Central Texas

Published by FRANK MAYBORN ENTERPRISES, INC.

KILLEEN DAILY HERALD

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Publisher SUE MAYBORN Editor JANNA ZEPP Graphic Designer M. CLARE HAEFNER Contributors FRED AFFLERBACH JUSTIN BORJA BRANDY CRUZ ELIZABETH FINKENBINDER SKEEBO REICHERT AMY ROGNLIE BECKY STINEHOUR CAREY STITES TONYA WARREN Advertising 254-778-4444 in Temple 254-501-7500 in Killeen ABOUT US: Tex Appeal Magazine is published 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, 4 issues.

Mail check to P.O. Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114. For questions about subscriptions, call 254-778-4444.

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HOW TO CONTACT US: Advertising: 254-778-4444 or 254-501-7500.

Editorial: Contact Janna Zepp at 254-774-5266 or editor@texappealmag.com

CONTRIBUTORS FRED AFFLERBACH literally took the long road to a journalism career. He has written for the Temple Daily Telegram and numerous other newspapers. Drawing on experiences from his long-haul trucking days, he has published two novels. He lives in Cedar Park.

Running-to-Live.com JUSTIN BORJA is a proud service member in the Air Force Reserve. He does portrait and commercial photography and lives in Harker Heights. He loves to explore other cities, connecting with people and capturing their images. BorjaVisuals.com BRANDY CRUZ is a proud Army wife and mother of four. She has been a writer, editor, photographer, graphic designer and a host of other things for more than 14 years and is currently the news editor of the Fort Hood Sentinel. She enjoys writing stories that are important to people, stories people want to read. She looks for the beauty in everything, which she believes is vital in photography.

ELIZABETH FINKENBINDER is a writing instructor at Temple College and has been a teacher for Academy Independent School District, Central Texas Christian School, Memorial Christian Academy and Nazarene Christian Academy. She is also a novelist; Land of a Thousand Dreams: House of Laurel is her most recent work.

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

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

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

CAREY STITES is a registered and licensed dietitian located in Harker Heights, Texas.

Carey obtained her master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from Texas Tech University has been a practicing dietitian since 2001. Carey is also an AFAA certified group fitness instructor and personal trainer; Carey has promoted health and wellness through presentations, classes, writing and cooking demonstrations all over Texas.

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

DID YOU KNOW? You can read back issues of Tex Appeal online at TexAppealMag.com. Log on today.

JOIN OUR TEAM

Tex Appeal is looking for photographers and freelance writers with newspaper or magazine experience. We are seeking candidates from the Central Texas area. Candidates must be detail- and deadlineoriented and good storytellers. Send a resume and three to five recent published samples for consideration to editor@texappealmag.com.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS WITH US

Email editor@texappealmag.com. Please include your name and phone number for verification. You also can connect with us on Facebook.

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Shannon Gowan is the executive director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Temple.

8 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

NEIGHBORS

Shannon Gowan Works to Change Children’s Lives

FOR THE BETTER

By JANNA ZEPP | Photo by JUSTIN BORJA

with an estimated value of $700 million in lieu of hotel costs. here is a saying often attributed to Forest Gowan says that since opening in September Witcraft, that says, “A hundred years from 1986, the Temple Ronald McDonald House has now it will not matter what my bank account hosted more than 15,000 families from 45 states, was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car plus Canada, Australia, Germany, Italy, Kosovo, I drove... but the world may be different because I Mexico, Spain and Venezuela. Temple RMH is the was important in the life of a child.”

91st house to open and their Ronald McDonald Shannon Gowan is the embodiment of that Family Room at Baylor Scott & White’s McLane’s quote.

Children’s Hospital was the 172nd to open out of Gowan had been a school teacher some all the current RMHC houses. time before becoming the first Director of The Temple RMH, located at 2415 S. 47th St., Communications and Media Relations for the City has 18 bedrooms with private baths and televisions. of Temple, a position she held There are two double kitchens for 13 years. She said that that families may use to make while she loved her job with their own meals. Some days, the city, she still felt the call to meals are prepared by Friends help children. Already a part of the House, a volunteer of the Temple Chamber of group associated with RMHC. Commerce Board of Directors “Our guests love those days and a Temple School Board when they come in from a long Member for District 6, she day at the hospital and smell a answered the call to keep home-cooked meal,” Gowan making a difference in the says. “It’s the smell of home lives of children by accepting and comfort, making a difficult the job of Executive Director day a little easier.” of Ronald McDonald House There are now 377 Charities of Temple last Ronald McDonald Houses November. in 45 countries and regions, “I’ve had some great and and 263 Ronald McDonald interesting positions with Family Rooms — a place for several great organizations, families to rest and regroup and I loved creating the at hospitals — in 28 countries — Shannon Gowan Communications and Media and regions. Referrals are not Relations program for the city. based on money, but distance But nothing recharges me quite like working with from home and the seriousness of the child’s illness. and for kids. I think that’s because I have been a Temple’s RMH has been closed since last teacher and I really loved that.” summer because of the COVID-19 pandemic, so it Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is has been quiet for Gowan and the RMHC staff. She an American independent nonprofit organization says it has given her a chance to really take time whose stated mission is to create, find, and support to get to know her new position, but she is really programs that directly improve the health and looking forward to reopening as soon as it is safe well-being of children. Ronald McDonald Houses for everyone to be social again. provide a place to stay for families with hospitalized “A house is not a home without families in it. children under 21 years of age, who are being I am so looking forward to the noise and happy treated at nearby hospitals and medical facilities. chaos of kids and their parents,” Gowan says. “It’s Ronald McDonald’s Houses provide over 7,200 getting time to be a home again, and I can’t wait to bedrooms to families around the world each night, see them when they get here.”

T

“Our guests love those days when they come in from a long day at the hospital and smell a homecooked meal. It’s the smell of home and comfort, making a difficult day a little easier.”

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SCENE: FATHER DAUGHTER STROLL

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Dads and daughters spent a special evening outside the Santa Fe Depot in Temple near Valentine‘s Day. There were carnations, carriage rides courtesy of Tifani Lee and Stella with North Star Carriage, and lots of room for dancing.

1. Brad and Ella Williams 2. Michael and Jasmine Gray 3. Kevin and Campbell Caperton 4. Deandre and Aaliyah Thompson 5. Aaron and Elly Connor 6. Kevin and Jazzell Jenkins 7. Ernesto Flores and Adrianna Flores 8. Adolph and Emberlee Lopez Photos by BECKY STINEHOUR 10 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

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SCENE: BELL COUNTY YOUTH FAIR & LIVESTOCK SHOW

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Children of all ages participated in the Bell County Youth Fair and Livestock Show in February at the Bell County Expo Center in Belton, showing animals they raised, goods they prepared and crafts they made in a variety of categories to earn ribbons and scholarship money.

1. Ian Ranly had the grand champion in commercial steers.

2. Kinsley Garmon had the grand champion pie.

3. Luke Read had the grand champion meat goat.

4. Bo Bryant, Anna Lee Bryant and Cooper Bryant had the grand champion broilers.

Photos by BECKY STINEHOUR

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Upcoming OMEEVEnts 2019 C ! Fun for Early Learners - Summer EE9-12US SJuly

Upcoming Exhibits 2020 June 15 - August 11- backstage pass: Early Days of Rolling Stone magazine

July - Junior Historians Camp Call or16-19 visit the Explore our newest permanent exhibit...

• Free admission year-round September 1 - October 20 - American museum website.

July 23-26 - STEAM CAMP (pre-registration required) Farmer “Discover Bell County”!

• Become a “Friend of the Museum” today!

July 20- backstage pass

November 8, 2019 - January 18, 2020 201 North Main Belton, TX 76513 • 254-933-5243 • www.bellcountymuseum.org

July 27 - Weird science!

12 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

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SCENE: ’SALADO LEGENDS’ AUDITIONS

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5 The show will go on at Tablerock Amphitheatre this summer. Auditions were held recently for the annual ”Salado Legends” performances.

1. Michael Johnson and James Combs audition for the show.

2. Jackie Mills wrote the beloved story that tells of Salado's founding families.

3. Thom Wilson is directing this year's performances.

4. Judy Hughes and Reagan Maki go over their lines.

5. Beth Correa is the assistant director.

Photos by BECKY STINEHOUR 14 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

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FLAVOURS

Cooking for Community Vira Chudasma fosters food, wine & fellowship in Temple

By JANNA ZEPP | Photos by JUSTIN BORJA and courtesy of VIRA CHUDASMA

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alk into any of Vira Chudasma’s three restaurants on West Adams Avenue and you will notice a completely unpretentious and warm ambiance regardless of the separate atmospheres and interior decor. La Riv Kitchen & Bar is sophisticated yet casual with a menu that is predominantly Tuscan Italian. Sona Wine Bar & Small Plates offers informal, upscale intimacy with a broad selection of wines. The sports bar, 3 West Alehouse & Grill where, quite literally, everybody knows your name and if they do not, they will soon, is relaxed but still classy. Manager Kara Cooper makes everyone feel welcome and cared for. Assistant Chef Tony Strauss helps make all of Vira’s cuisine top notch and often comes out to make sure you love what you’re eating. All three menus are updated regularly. And all three venues are definitely neighborhood hang outs known for great food and service.

You’ll need to follow Vira’s restaurants and bars on their social media pages and accounts to stay current with the many events and live music each hosts. And soon, there will be a fourth restaurant to enjoy after it opens during the spring of 2021: Bombay Central. That one will feature a traditional Indian street food menu, craft cocktails and a Scotch and Bourbon bar with access to Sona for wine.

Chili Chicken or Chili Paneer at La Riv

16 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

Wood Roasted Half Chicken at La Riv

“Bombay Central will offer the kind of food I grew up with in India,” says Vira. “It is a kind of comfort food, and I absolutely love comfort food.”

She came up with the idea for the new place after she began serving some of her traditional Indian favorites curbside from La Riv during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.

“I run out of Chicken Tikka Masala first, every time. I figured it was time to open an Indian restaurant,” she adds.

Speaking of the pandemic, that was what changed Vira’s business model and she says she found her calling in the midst of the chaos.

“Everything was shut down. People lost jobs.

They went hungry. That’s not right. Everyone should be able to eat. Feed your people first, then help them find jobs. If they’re well-fed, they can overcome anything,” she says. And that is when she began offering curbside free pasta and sauce to those who could not afford to pay.

“I had food on the shelves that would go bad if we didn’t use it. It was not like I was rolling in cash at the time, but I felt a moral responsibility make sure it did not go to waste and people had something to eat during that dark time. Before Continued

Vira Chudasma owns three restaurants on West Adams Avenue in Temple: La Riv Kitchen & Bar, Sona Wine Bar & Small Plates and 3 West Alehouse & Grill.

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A bartender at 3 West Alehouse & Grill pours wine for customers.

I knew it, my regular customers began donating extra money to cover the service. Central Texas turned out many anonymous donors to our cause,” says Vira, deep compassion evident in her voice.

She and her kitchen crew have been featured several times in local media for their dedication to keeping Central Texans fed during the pandemic and then again during the terrible winter storm in February 2021. She said she did not know how she could afford to keep her businesses going, but she credits God and her community for the love and support, and she’s not only kept her doors open, she’s seeing a return on her investment in others.

Since the pandemic, business has begun to take off. Weekends, you’ll need reservations to dine at La Riv because tables fill up fast now.

“When I first opened La Riv in 2014, West Temple was pretty much open fields and a few new subdivisions. I’ve watched the community grow and I feel like we grew together,” Vira says. “West Temple is my home now.”

Vira believes in respecting the food by using the freshest produce and using all the animal products so nothing is wasted. She also says that the right attitude, ideas and a strong desire to succeed make all the difference in her work. She has university degrees in mechanical engineering and finance, but cooking is her true calling; one she found while backpacking through Europe in her youth which led her to study culinary arts in the Tuscany region of Italy. She hopes one day to start a food charity that ensures no one goes hungry.

“Food, wine and community are inextricably intertwined,” she says. “It’s a core of our society.

We should preserve that by being our brothers’ keepers and feeding our neighbors.”

You can find out more at larivkitchen.com, on Facebook and other social media accounts and by calling 254-231-3661.

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THE REVIEW

Fall in Love with Texas

Pick up these charming series set in the Lone Star State

By M. CLARE HAEFNER

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ne of my favorite historical fiction authors, Amanda Cabot, set her newest series in the Texas Hill Country in the 1850s. Out of the Embers (Revell, March 2020) starts the Mesquite Springs trilogy with a suspenseful story that, like all of Cabot’s historic Christian novels, mixes in some sweet romance.

Ten years after her parents were murdered, Evelyn Radcliffe still can’t shake the feeling that she’s being watched.

When the orphanage that was her refuge is burned to the ground, Evelyn sets out to make a new life for herself and 6-year-old Polly in Mesquite Springs. When trouble follows, Evelyn knows she needs help, but is reluctant to trust rancher Wyatt Clark, especially when she learns his dreams don’t include a ready-made family.

The story continues in Dreams Rekindled (Revell, March 2021), focusing on Wyatt’s sister, Dorothy Clark, whose ambition in life is to write another novel that stirs things up like Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin. When dashing newspaper man Brandon Holloway sets up shop, Dorothy hopes she’ll get the chance to make her dreams come true, but another newcomer has very different plans for Mesquite Springs and its newspaper.

Dreams Rekindled was just as charming as Out of the Embers, with more romance in the air and mysteries to solve as the plot unfolds and the characters discover the healing power of truth. My own journey as a writer helped me relate to the characters on a deeper level and my investigative skills had me reading between the lines to unravel what would happen next.

I’m looking forward to the series’ conclusion, which Cabot says is coming soon, to see how it all plays out.

24 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

MODERN-DAY ROMANCES FROM EMILY MARCH

If contemporary tales are more your thing, pick up the latest novel from author Emily March (a Texas A&M graduate) and find out why troubled souls find peace in Enchanted Canyon.

Boone (St. Martin’s Paperbacks, December 2020) completes the Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas trilogy that’s part of March’s wider Eternity Springs collection (the McBride books are officially numbers 16-18 in the series).

Most of the McBride trilogy is set in Redemption, Texas, which is in the opposite direction of Ruin in case you were wondering.

This charming Hill Country romance features lots of references any longtime Texan will appreciate, including Enchanted Rock, which is in the vicinity of this fictional tourist town that reminds me of Fredericksburg.

Like the other books in the collection, Boone can be read as a stand-alone, but will be more enjoyable if you read Jackson (St. Martin’s Paperbacks, June 2019) and Tucker (St. Martin’s Paperbacks, February 2020) first, as Boone and his McBride cousins have interwoven story lines throughout each book as each McBride must come to terms with his past to find love and a permanent place to call home.

I started reading the McBrides of Texas trilogy on the recommendation of a friend who knows I’m always on the hunt for good books set in Texas or written by Texas authors. I enjoyed March’s witty, fast-paced, character-driven romances so much that I plan to read the entire Eternity Springs series, even if most of the novels are set in Colorado.

When I've finished that collection, I’ll check out her six-part Brazos Bend series along with her other contemporary and historical romances.

You can check out her recommended reading order at emilymarch.com.

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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THE SOW’S EAR CUSTOM WOOD WORKS

Master Craftsmen

By AMY ROGNLIE | Photos by JUSTIN BORJA

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“Whether it’s a dining table, sliding barn door, entry door, media center or whatever, often clients come to us because they can’t find what they are looking for in any store.”

— Amanda Parker 26 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

hey say you can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear, but Jason and Amanda Parker of The Sow’s Ear Custom Wood Works have proven that’s not true.

From their humble beginnings of producing simple farm tables in their Temple garage, the Central Texas couple has expanded their services to include just about anything you can think of made from wood.

“We’ve done handcrafted dining tables and chairs, entertainment centers, coffee and end tables, dressers and nightstands, headboards, bunk beds, sliding barn doors of any size, kitchen islands and cabinets, bathroom vanities, wood counter tops and mantels. We use reclaimed, antique lumber as well as new wood in a variety of species, including pine, knotty alder, hickory, pecan, oak, maple, cedar and walnut,” Amanda says.

Jason, a craftsman at heart, has built the business by constantly stretching himself to learn new skills. “I think the key to our growth was that we rarely said ‘no’, even if we were asked to create something we had no idea how to build. Whether it was cabinetry, custom stair and balcony railing or custom entry doors, we took the job and then researched, tinkered and figured it out,” he says.

Jason and two employees build all of the projects, while Amanda is in charge of finishing each piece to their clients’ specifications. “Jason and I love working together every day and make a good team,” she says with a smile.

A far cry from their garage, The Sow’s Ear’s 8,000-square-foot workshop is now located on Highway 36 in the old Pioneer Ballroom and Bar. As a nod to the building’s colorful history in Bell County, the Parkers have kept the disco ball hanging from the ceiling and turned the beer cooler into a wood-drying kiln. “We had some folks who were a little disappointed that we were not reopening the bar,” Jason says.

However, no one is disappointed in the loving attention the couple gives each piece. “I think what makes us unique is that every piece we build is completely custom; built to the exact needs and desires of each client. Whether it’s a dining table, Continued

Jason and Amanda Parker own The Sow's Ear Custom Wood Works.

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“I love building furniture that will stay in a family and be passed down from generation to generation.”

— Jason Parker

28 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

sliding barn door, entry door, media center or whatever, often clients come to us because they can’t find what they are looking for in any store,” Amanda says. “We don't limit ourselves to only building any one style of furnishings.”

Far from mass-producing furniture, the Parkers pour their hearts and souls into their work. Some of their favorite projects are what they call heirloom pieces — doors, benches, and dining room tables, just to name a few. “I love building furniture that will stay in a family and be passed down from generation to generation,” Jason says. He gestures toward a partially-built bookcase. “That bookcase will be around long after Amanda and I are gone… someone somewhere will own it.”

IF YOU GO

The Sow’s Ear Custom Wood Works 2507 E. Texas Highway 36, Temple Phone: 254-721-0045 Email: info@thesowseartexas.com Online: https://www.thesowseartexas.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-SowsEar-Custom-Wood-Works-1022047807819828/

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Kay and Mike Lynch own Earthscapes Garden & Home in Temple.

30 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

EARTHSCAPES GARDEN & HOME

Plant-Parenting Made Easy

By JANNA ZEPP | Photos by JUSTIN BORJA

M

any Texans had (or still have) a grandmother, more often than not called “Gammy,” who kept a back porch greenhouse at her home full of lush, green plants that were her special guilty pleasure. And those Texans with a “greenhouse gammy” remember loving to wander around that little, warm oasis every time they went to see her. It was a chance to spend time with her and learn every plant’s name, what the name meant and how to care for it. That greenhouse was full of humidity, the smell of plant fertilizer and the undeniable feelings of joy and love.

If you did not have a grandparent with a green thumb, don’t worry. You can experience a little of that essential Texas family experience at Earthscapes Garden & Home at 5713 Loop 205 Drive in Temple. The shop at which you enter is filled with all sorts of interesting soaps, lotions and home décor that take you back to another era or a stress-free time in your life. There are shady spots on porches around the place to sit and enjoy the view, and it is tempting to bring an iced drink with you just to sit and relax. Owners, Mike and Kay Lynch make you feel like family the moment you walk in.

“We love using our abilities to draw people's attentions to God's creations. It is so fun and rewarding to help make our customers’ dreams a reality, whether for an indoor jungle or backyard oasis,” says Kay. The Lynches have worked on many commercial projects that have improved and enhanced the beauty of Central Texas. Kay says that in their residential designs, they have also helped many people make their house a home, drawing on creativity and expansive knowledge of plants that will thrive in this area.

“Before we were married, Mike and I met at Texas A&M University, where we were both studying Landscape Architecture. After we graduated, Mike started working in Temple since he's from Troy, while I gained experience in Dallas,” says Kay. “Eventually in June of 1987, we decided to take the leap and start our own business together. We've been open and serving the Central Texas area for over 33 years as a local Continued

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garden center and gift shop, as well as professional landscape architects.”

The Lynches never stop learning and growing in landscape design. They stay current on trends in landscaping styles through continuing education programs so that architectural plans are relevant to their customers’ needs and desires.

“As a family-owned business, we pride ourselves on our customer service. We recognize that people are at various points in their plant-parent journey and we are eager to help no matter what your experience,” says Mike.

The greenhouse behind the shop is worth the trip. It’s full of vibrant greenery and if you’re having a little trouble deciding which plant to take home, Freckles the Nursery Cat is available to help you, as only cats can do.

“Freckles has been here since she was a kitten.

She has her routine around the place and she gets a little sad when we all go home in the evening,” says Mike, giving the cat a scratch behind the ears.

“Sometimes I think the customers come to see her as much as they come to see us.”

For more information, find Earthscapes online at earthscapesintemple.com or on Facebook as Earthscapes Garden & Home, call 254-773-4668 or email at earthscapes@hot.rr.com.

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36 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

From Farm to Table

Consumer supported agriculture model helps small farmers keep growing during pandemic

By FRED AFFLERBACH | Photos by SKEEBO and courtesy of TEXAS FARM FRESH

W

hen the coronavirus pandemic crippled the Texas restaurant business last year, Sam Maggard was in a pickle. As the general manager of Tonkawa Farm in Salado, he had built a niche selling pasture raised chicken to Central Texas high-end restaurants. Stuck with a market that was shrinking fast, Maggard shifted gears and adopted a popular business strategy called Consumer Supported Agriculture. Customers could now go online and order not just his locally raised chicken, but fresh vegetables, beef, bison, fruit in season, herbs and teas, all delivered to their door once a week.

Using the CSA model, and under the business name and website Texas Farm Fresh, the delivery trucks roll deep into the heart of Texas. Starting from a shipping dock in Jarrell, drivers deliver across Bell County to Houston, San Antonio, Austin and Dallas, and many points in between. The fun begins when customers open an online account.

Texas Farm Fresh offers a multitude of options — a vegetables only box, a protein box, a farm box.

And if customers see something they don’t like, or want something they don’t see at first, they can customize their order. An assortment of tempting add-ons such as coffee and tea, eggs and dairy, bison, and Wagyu beef are available.

“We have numerous, family-run businesses with jams and jellies that are all done through a commercial kitchen,” Maggard said. “They all come to a centralized point that is us. That helps with a lot of the mom-and-pop places that have limited resources. They might do a farmers’ market but they’re not reaching the people like we are because we’re essentially covering most of the state.”

Maggard is quick to point out that Community Supported Agriculture is not like shopping for groceries online from a major chain. Everything is locally grown, he says, from produce to dairy to his pasture-raised chicken. And there are about 1,400 products available.

“They’re getting organic produce. They’re getting things that they know where it’s coming

Sam Maggard is the general manager of Tonkawa Farm. from,” Maggard said. “And the prices are fairly close to chain grocery stores.

I’ve got one customer who says she can get the same amount of produce for the money as at a chain store but would rather support local. Almost everything’s from Texas except certain items in Continued

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38 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

Pasture-raised chickens, other meats and fresh produce are delivered to customers' doors by Texas Farm Fresh. certain times of year.”

Over in College Station, Addison Cooper eagerly awaits his weekly delivery from Texas Farm Fresh. An IT engineer working from home, Cooper has lost 50 pounds in the last six months by working out and swearing off fast food. A self-professed foodie, he says Texas Farm Fresh makes cooking fun. And the dishes are delicious.

“Eating the junk from the grocery store does not even compare,” Cooper said. “You don’t realize how bland and boring it is until you have the good stuff.”

Cooper has signed on to a subscription (also called a share) and receives a weekly email depicting what’s in the next delivery. “If there’s certain things you don’t want, you can replace it with things you do want. I use that as a meal plan. Whatever’s in there, it’ll make me create some variety. That helps with my cooking skills and variety for the meals.”

Besides supporting local agriculture, Texas Farm Fresh supports a lighter carbon footprint by cutting back on waste. Leftover food is donated to a local food bank or zoo. And the delivery box is a reusable plastic bin with a long lifespan—up to 500 round trips before it’s recycled.

And unlike at grocery stores where workers liberally bag produce and other items separately, creating more waste, the food is mostly placed loose in the box, using as little packaging as possible. But to prevent shipping damage, they place heavy items like potatoes on the bottom and fragile items like tomatoes on top.

Maggard says that the food Texas Farm Fresh delivers to a customer’s doorstep came out of the ground within the last week. “It’s about as fresh as you can get it, without having your own farm.”

ILLUSIA

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DavinChi Cut

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For more on Tonkawa Farm and Texas Farm Fresh, go to txfarmfresh.com.

1202 SOUTH 31ST STREET | TEMPLE | 254-773-5772

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Earl Nottingham is one of Texas’ foremost landscape photographers.

Through Earl’s Eyes Photographer spends career capturing Texas parks, wildlife

By FRED AFFLERBACH | Photos courtesy of EARL NOTTINGHAM and CHASE FOUNTAIN

G

rowing up in Temple in the 1960s, Earl Nottingham spent a lot of time in the bathroom. Not that he was suffering from an extraordinary medical condition, rather, Nottingham had converted the family bathroom into a temporary darkroom. Decades before digital technology revolutionized photography, Nottingham was developing photographs the old-

fashioned way — with film and chemicals and an enlarger.

From this humble beginning, Nottingham has forged a career as one of Texas’ foremost landscape photographers. From the salt and sand of the Gulf Coast, to the shadowy Piney Woods, to the Panhandle’s endless skies, to the dramatic Continued TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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cliffs and vistas and barren mountains of Big Bend National Park, Nottingham has spent a quarter century photographing an ever-changing landscape for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. His notable work in the department’s magazine has come to symbolize Texas’ diverse landscape.

But, after 25 years as chief photographer at TPWD, Nottingham will retire March 31.

Louie Bond, editor at Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine since 2008, says you can recognize a Nottingham photo by the mood. “And I think that mood is reverence. He has such a love and respect for nature. When he takes a photo, it’s sacred. And you can feel it — the light, the mist in the air, the framing of the shot. When you see it through Earl’s eyes, I just feel like it’s filled with love and reverence. And there’s a peacefulness that’s communicated in his photography,” Bond said. “A lot of photographers create dramatic landscapes, and Earl’s are certainly dramatic, but there’s a peacefulness to them as well. You would think that if I was in that place, I would feel really good right now.”

Capturing that mood, that reverence for nature, isn’t always a glamorous job. Nottingham has spent countless long nights sleeping in the front seat, and sometimes the bed, of his pickup, tripod, lenses, camera at the ready, waiting for the sun to appear from behind a mountain, or over breaking waves, or above a towering tree line. Nottingham says that more than anything else, light can transform an everyday photo into something special.

“Somebody said a good picture is nothing more than an ordinary subject and extraordinary lighting,” Nottingham recalled. “Here’s a mountain at Big Bend. I’ll schedule it at this time of day because I know the sun’s right. I’ll have that

44 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

beautiful, warm lighting. Also it’s going to show the texture of the mountain. Now the moon’s coming up. I’m going to put it off to the side so it plays against the mountain. At the last second, a deer shows up on the ridge top, something you didn’t expect, like that little ah-ha.”

After working for the Temple High School yearbook and the Temple Daily Telegram, Nottingham earned a bachelor’s degree in photography at East Texas State University in 1978.

Nottingham worked freelance in what he calls the lean years until 1996 when he landed the job at TPWD. Although he’s known mostly for his landscape photography, he also writes a regular column and shoots videos and environmental portrait photographs for the department. Besides TPWD Magazine, the accredited master photographer’s work has graced the pages of numerous state and national periodicals.

When hurricanes threatened the Gulf Coast, Nottingham deployed with Texas Game Wardens in their search and rescue missions. In 2005, he joined the wardens when they crossed a state line for the first time to help in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The devastation in New Orleans — the terrified and thankful look on people’s faces as they were helped into the boats, a floating dead mule, and a shrimp boat grounded in trees — has left an indelible mark on his conscience.

“One of my favorite photos of his is rescuing a family,” Bond said. There’s this family and he’s got all of their expressions of despair and hope and everything that they’ve been through on their faces as these game wardens are rescuing them from the flood. The length that he went to get it shows how much he cares. Not only about getting a great photo but chronicling important things for Texas.”

In 2008, Nottingham and game wardens rode out Hurricane Ike in a sheriff department’s headquarters. After a long night with no sleep, Nottingham and the wardens patrolled in their air boats through the small community of Anahuac.

“This subdivision backed up to the bay,” Nottingham said. “And every snake within 100 miles had washed up on this shore. They had snakes in their backyard crawling up trees. One landowner, he’s out there with a shotgun just shooting snakes left and right. It was something out of a bad dream — water moccasins, rattlesnakes, but mostly moccasins.”

Always eager to embrace technology, Nottingham is now a licensed commercial drone pilot who employs drones to capture a view you can’t get at eye level. The drone he uses can take photos up to 400 feet above the ground.

“It gives you a whole new perspective on the scenery and the way people don’t normally see it.

It’s a great tool,” Nottingham said. “We used to have to use a helicopter at Texas Parks and Wildlife, and it’s very expensive.”

Although Nottingham’s retiring from the TPWD, his work there is still accessible to the public. For those eager to learn from a master, he plans to lead workshops in the not-too-distant future. And Texas A&M University Press will be publishing an anthology of his work in fall 2021.

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PLANT BUSINESS HELPS VETERAN FIND

‘New Ground’ A

By TONYA WARREN | Photos by JANNA ZEPP and courtesy

fter nine years in the U.S. Army, Santiago Gonzales earned a computer engineering degree from DeVry University and traded his uniform for a business suit. He soon discovered the corporate world isn’t always a bed of roses. He has found his calling in an unlikely place — a small nursery on the edge of downtown Temple.

“I became so disillusioned with the stress after working in a very tense high-tech job,” says Santiago, a native Floridian. “I knew there must be something else out there for me.” He then moved to Austin where he operated multiple tire stores for 15 years.

Santiago would drive to the Temple VA for his healthcare, often thinking about various job opportunities other than tires. Three Palms Nursery isn’t far from the VA health system, so when he 46 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

was in the area, he’d find himself stopping by the nursery to talk shop with the business owners.

He grew to enjoy the peacefulness of being near the potted trees and shrubs that were awaiting new ground. Santiago knew he needed “new ground” too. He decided to purchase the nursery.

“I’ve always enjoyed the outdoors,” he says.” It just offers a calming environment.” He likes to get out and fiddle with the inventory, moving things around on his LS Compact tractor, which he says is the best investment he’s ever made.

He speaks with awe as he daily describes what it’s like taking care of living things. “Everyday I get to take care of the plants. I get to watch them grow and transform. They just make you feel good.”

Fortunately, they also make a lot of other folks Continued

Santiago Gonzales owns Three Palms Nursery.

IF YOU GO

Three Palms Nursery has two locations: 301 S. Franklin St. in Holland 254-249-0065 lahill62@yahoo.com 15 E. Avenue G in Temple 254-228-0289 sgonzales_1@yahoo.com

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feel good during these long days of the pandemic. “At the beginning of COVID, people were home, it was spring, things were shut down, and they had all this extra time on their hands,” Santiago says. “Couples would stop by with their honey-do lists.”

Educating customers is an important part of the business, as Santiago wants to help them understand proper care of their gardening purchases. He remembers one gentleman who ordered a large number of trees for his country home but had no way of watering them. The customer was surprised to learn the young trees needed a lot of watering to help establish roots and remain healthy throughout our brutal Texas summers.

“First of all, I ask people what kind of water supply they have, as that will determine what plants will thrive in their environment. I then ask what look they are envisioning for their home or office. I ask them to drive around established neighborhoods and take pictures of what they like,” Santiago says. They then bring him the pictures and they discuss what would work well for their area.

Bell County is home to a large active duty and retired military community, so a lot of newcomers may not be familiar with what grows and flourishes here. He reminds customers to be careful not to get their heart set on a beautiful plant they saw on social media, since zone requirements can vary wildly. Also, it’s easy for beginner plant enthusiasts to remember plants aren’t attractive when they go dormant for the season. “Think about how beautiful a crepe myrtle tree is in August versus what it looks like in January,” Santiago says, laughing.

Although customers regularly ask Santiago to expand his business by offering fertilizers, mulch and even landscaping services, he prefers to keep things on a manageable scale.

Santiago’s wife, Laura, opened Three Palms Nursery Plants and Pottery last summer in the nearby community of Holland. While Santiago specializes in outdoor nursery offerings, Laura sells a variety of indoor plants. She has glazed Mexican and Vietnam pottery, chimineas, concrete statues and bird baths to enhance your garden environment.

“I retired from a very stressful job,” Laura says. “This job is for enjoyment, and I like helping customers pick out something they’d like in their home or office.”

She’s found her “new ground” too.

48 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

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50 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

Jeanette Holtman

Paradise Grows

East of Temple at Lonesome Pine Nursery

By JANNA ZEPP | Photos by SKEEBO AND JANNA ZEPP

J

ust east of Temple on Adams Avenue is a little paradise full of plants, trees, flowers and assorted yard curios. The soft sounds of people chatting with one another drift through the air as they come and go, usually with a haul of greenery in their arms.

It’s a peaceful spot, unless you count Liberty and Hank, two furry greeters who come to see you as you drive into the parking lot, and even they are pretty chill as dogs go. They just want to tell you hello before they go on about their very important nursery dog business.

At Lonesome Pine Nursery, the people are friendly, and after the winter storm that hit Texas harder than most of us remember, it is a muchneeded salve for the gardener’s soul. Owner Jeanette Holtman even said that we were due for a hard freeze sometime around Feb. 15, but she certainly did not predict it would be as bad as it was.

“I know everybody was glad to see green again after that,” she says. “Like other growers, we were hit bad. It was awful. Just awful. There really aren’t words to describe it.”

But even the storm couldn’t keep her or the nursery down. The greenhouse kept plants warm and alive through the freeze, and more are arriving each day.

Jeanette personally goes to pick out and pick up from growers each plant that Lonesome Pine sells.

“I love being a part of the community here. I feel needed, loved and wanted,” she says, smiling. “It made my day when a regular customer of mine told me that my prices are fair and that she loves my plants.”

She also said that after 26 years in business, it’s finally getting really fun. When asked if she has ever thought of retiring, Jeanette says no and James Holtman, Jeanette’s son and employee, backs her up on that.

“Mom is really devoted to the business,” James says. “This is her happy place.”

Jeanette, and her late husband Henry, who passed away in October, began Lonesome Pine in 1995. They met in Westphalia at a dance when they were young.

Henry Holtman passed away in October, but Jeanette keeps a portrait of him among the plants in the greenhouse so she can see him every day. She says she still hears him speaking to her as she goes about her day, advising her along the way.

“I wouldn’t let go of his little finger that whole night,” Jeanette says. “He was just the one for me.

We were married 52 years.”

Before starting their nursery business, Jeanette and Henry worked together in a cabinet shop, spending their weekends for five years working for Continued

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the late Ray and Virgie Looney at Plants & Things in Belton.

Jeanette loved the store and said she would change up the entryway display often to keep it interesting for customers and Virgie alike.

She tells the story of the Looneys trying to sell succulents and they weren’t moving the way they wanted them to. Henry suggested they have a succulent garage sale and Plants & Things completely sold out of their inventory.

Henry also told her that they couldn’t keep making cabinets the rest of their lives, and that someday they needed to consider doing something else for a living.

“I remember thinking that it might be fun to own a nursery of my own, but I never dreamed this big,” she says of Lonesome Pine. “And my mother loved plants. She passed away earlier this year. When I am here, I feel close to my mother.”

She says Henry worked hard to make her dreams

52 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

come true. As her husband’s health declined, she made sure he always had a little secret garden spot inside the greenhouse or somewhere on the property to rest while still being available to customers. The family knew Henry’s days were limited, but they never thought he’d pass as soon as he did.

A portrait of Henry stands among the plants in the greenhouse so Jeanette can see him every day at work and she says she still hears him speaking to her as she goes about her business, advising her along the way.

“He was my mentor. He helped me to the very end,” she says, quietly. “I miss him every day.”

IF YOU GO

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53

A Fresh Finish We sell and install all types of locks and security solutions.

Pure Design Countertops uses a unique method to give your spaces a new look

By TONYA WARREN | Photos by SKEEBO

W 24 Hours a Day / 7 Days a Week!

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54 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

hen you look around your Armed with some YouTube home or business and knowledge and a desire to see if he decide strong elbowcould really pull this new idea off, grease and new tchotchkes won’t Gary set out for his garage to begin bring the fresh look you are searching experimenting. Other than enjoying for, perhaps it’s time to seek out drawing as a kid, he says, “I have no assistance to give your surface areas formal training in design or art.” He some new love. enjoys woodworking, so he decided Troy area residents Gary and Eliana to combine the idea of making an Inocencio, owners of Pure Design entry table with an epoxy tabletop.

Countertops since 1997, may be able The result? A lovely wooden painted to help. table with its beautiful tabletop Pure Design was born out of design offering an exquisite black, necessity. Several years ago, the white, and blue marbled look. couple wanted to redo their kitchen After a couple of months of countertops, and Eliana, who puttering around in the garage with hails from Brazil, a epoxy, he finished country known for some countertops for exquisite marble, his daughter’s house was considering as well as some for using marble for the his neighbor. “They replacement. Laughing, loved the new look,” Gary admitted he Gary says. “I was quickly tabled that idea, also gaining some and then set out to confidence that I could find a quality, attractive really do this for a alternative that fit their living.” pocketbook.

Eventually, he Perusing YouTube wanted to up his videos turned out to be game, and learn — Gary Inocencio key in the Inocencio’s even more about this search for an updated countertop creative process, so he attended a look. The most informative video three-day conference in Las Vegas Gary found was by Mike Quist of where he met people in the business Stone Coat Countertops. Gary and from all over the country. He was Eliana were so impressed with the amazed at the creative and beautiful magnificent look that was produced look this form of artwork produced. by using epoxy, a resin material.

“It’s all about the customer,” Gary The couple knew they had found says. “They tell me the look they are the look they were wanting for their going for, and they choose the colors own kitchen. However, they came and design.” up empty-handed after searching There are many, many shades of for someone local to renew their colors to choose from, along with countertops using this interesting mica pigment powders to create a method. Gary’s entrepreneurial spirit truly one-of-a-kind look. A careful kicked in, and planning was underway blending of the selected colors, a to offer a new service for home and slight tilt of the surface area as colors business owners to fill this void in are applied and applying a gentle upgrading surface areas.

Continued

“They tell me the look they are going for, and they choose the colors and design.”

Gary and Eliana Inocencio started Pure Design Countertops in 1997.

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Gary Inocencio is hands-on when it comes to creating his custom countertops at Pure Design. heat treatment are just a few of the many ways your new surface area dreams come true. He can cut new countertops and apply the epoxy or possibly sand the existing ones and start the application process.

He initially consults with customers about the surface areas they are looking to enhance. “We discuss what type of look they envision. Do they want a granite look or a marbled look? Do they want an exotic look?

Also, what colors do they like?”

In a nod to the currently popular minimalist look, Gary says many homeowners want simple white countertops with a gentle “veining” look. After meeting with a customer, he will create a sample board based on the customer’s preferences, and adjustments will be made accordingly, if needed, after customer viewing.

Surface areas amenable to the epoxy process include countertops, tabletops, bar tops, and windowsills.

Epoxy coating offers an array of advantages in the home or business.

Made to withstand a 475-degree temperature on its surface, the resin is difficult to scratch or stain, and Gary says many scratches can be buffed out versus having to replace the 56 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

entire counter. Eliana, a nurse, enjoys the fact that these countertops are seamless, and therefore, they do not harbor food crumbs. She also says common, regular cleaning products can be used to sanitize the surface for a quick and safe cleanup.

Surface areas in public businesses take a lot of daily wear and tear and Pure Design Countertops can help design those surface areas to give that professional, clean look to wow customers and keep them coming back time after time.

Need some unique gift ideas? Gary puts fun in a functional lazy Susan he creates using the same process he does for other surface areas. Fun and unique colors of your lazy Susan will net a lot of interesting kitchen table conversations for years to come.

Another item not to be missed are customized coasters. If you have a sports fan in your life, score big with them with a corn hole game made with their favorite team colors using this fun and creative method. Now, that sounds like a winner.

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57

Glitz & Glamour

Operation Deploy Your Dress brings sparkle to Fort Hood Story and photos by BRANDY CRUZ

B

eing a member of the military community no longer means just putting on a uniform or wondering what to wear to formal unit events.

Open since September, Operation Deploy Your Dress now makes glitz and glamour available to service members and their families.

“We open weekly and anyone with a valid military ID can get one dress free per year and one accessory,” said Christin James, shop manager of the Fort Hood boutique. “They don’t have any obligation to return it, so it’s theirs free and clear.”

ODYD is a nonprofit founded at Fort Bliss in 2015 as a dress swap. The Fort Hood Spouses’ Club was contacted about opening its own shop, making it the organization’s eighth location. With more than 1,000 dresses donated from around the world, the mission of ODYD is to help offset the high costs of formal events, especially for junior soldiers, though gowns are available to all ranks.

“I think it helps build camaraderie on base and it helps going to these functions more affordable and fun,” James said.

She said the shop is available to loan for free if battalions, companies or small groups want to come in to dress shop before a ball. It also helps new spouses figure out what types of dresses they should be looking when shopping for a military ball.

“It’s good for younger spouses who have never been to a ball and don’t really know what to wear and

Shari Jackowski pulls a couple of dresses to try on at the ODYD Boutique at Fort Hood.

58 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

are also really nervous,” said Dana Key, president of the Fort Hood Spouses’ Club.

James said the boutique has dresses in a variety of sizes and styles for every body shape. She said some of the dresses are big and flowy, some are slinky, some are short and some even have trains.

Opening the shop was no simple task, as it took hundreds of volunteer hours, with James logging 280 hours alone. She received assistance from Fort Hood Spouses’ Club volunteers, as well as design and construction assistance from “Moving with the Military,” the Fort Hood-based home improvement show created, produced and hosted by local Army spouses Maria Reed and Chandee Ulch.

Reed heard about the project from Christina Hendrex, wife of Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Hendrex, the former III Corps and Fort Hood senior enlisted advisor, and jumped at the chance to help.

Armed with nine construction volunteers, consisting of spouses and children from the Reed and Ulch families, the crew built the closets the gowns hang from, built four dressing rooms, painted and helped with the final touches. Reed said they worked more than 150 hours.

“We were thrilled with the results. Knowing that for years to come ladies from around the world will be able to walk into those doors and for a moment feel like a princess and be doted over is why we get involve with things like this,” Ulch said. “Everyone needs a moment when they can look into a mirror and love who they see. Yes, the place is beautiful, but the place only reflects how we, at ‘Moving with the Military,’ see every military spouse, child, and service member, as someone special.”

Reed said the “Moving with the Military” episode featuring the Fort Hood ODYD can be watched on YouTube, Facebook and Farm & Ranch TV. Check their Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/ movingwiththemilitary, for updates and some behindthe-scenes photos of the ODYD build.

The Fort Hood ODYD is open Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Appointments are required and can be made online. Visit the Fort Hood ODYD Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/FortHoodODYD, for the link. Dress donations can be dropped off at the ODYD box outside Heart of the Hood Gift Shop or at the Fort Hood ODYD, located to the right of the Clear Creek Commissary (behind the trees).

Shari Jackowski, Dylan Screen, Rose Roher and Meriah Wail show selections from Operation Deploy Your Dress Boutique.

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FORGOTTEN FILM

PAST MEETS PRESENT WITH STYLE & HEART

By ELIZABETH FINKENBINDER | Photos by SKEEBO and JANNA ZEPP

T

he old First National Bank in downtown Belton on Central Avenue houses a bit of a virtual time machine capable of taking you as far back as the middle of the 19th century.

Forgotten Film, a photography studio owned and operated by a delightfully friendly and fascinating couple, Jonathan and Laura Lee Cobb, restores old photos, shoots portraits using late 19th and early 20th century image reproduction technology, and allows customers to be creative far beyond the selfie with a modern smartphone.

The Cobbs originally hail from Rhode Island.

Jonathan was in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Hood when they fell in love with Central Texas. They both agreed that the friendly attitudes of Texans and the warmer weather motivated them to make the move permanent a few years later.

Although they have family in the Northeast and love to visit, they have put down roots in Belton.

Forgotten Film opened its doors in November.

The couple loves vintage photography, which includes taking pictures with old cameras, developing film in a dark room and doing without the digital advantages of editing with computer software or apps.

Their eyes lit up when discussing the film development process, which can be messy and difficult. Jonathan spoke of his deployments

Forgotten Films’ vault dark room is where vintage-style photos get developed.

60 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

overseas while in the military and the posttraumatic stress disorder that resulted from that time. It was suggested to him that a creative hobby might help his healing process. He was trying to quit smoking, and photography kept his hands busy. He had always been interested in photography, but it wasn’t until he got his first DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) camera that he began to pursue it enthusiastically.

Laura Lee said they were privileged to be a part of a photography class given by the Warrior Connection in Vermont, which is an organization that helps soldiers and vets with their various needs, including psychological and physical ones.

Jonathan particularly enjoyed film photography, and he actually started a dark room in a closet of his house, learning the process on his own, step by step.

When the Cobbs first moved to Texas, they briefly had an online business selling stock photography, but they began extending their skills to photo restoration and camera repair, even vintage models. They began going to flea markets, Continued

Laura Lee and Jonathan Cobb share their love of old cameras and photography at Forgotten Film in Belton.

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pawn shops, and antique stores to find old cameras and were surprised to find canisters and containers of old film in cameras that people had forgotten to develop. Many rolls included pictures of very old ships, army scenes, and nature shots.

They were excited to help a woman retrieve tin-type film from a camera that had been stuck for years, and she was finally able to see a picture of a relative not seen in generations. That kind of moment makes their business so much sweeter because they get to see the joy on people’s faces when they discover lost treasures.

When given a tour of the shop, it is fun to see vintage cameras and film abound. An Agfa box camera, probably dating back to the 1890s, sits in the back of the store. It is the kind of camera from a century ago with a pull string, an 8x10 wet plate for development, and a black cloth to cover the photographer’s head. The puff of magnesium released when capturing an image made everything brighter and would distract the photographer’s eyes with bright lights and affect the process unless the photographer's head was covered. The tables are piled with film, disposable cameras, and other odds and ends.

At the back of this fascinating place is the dark room where Jonathan processes the film. A secured vault sits in the corner that has not been opened in decades. There is no running water in the room for

The Cobbs use a ”spy camera” to create tiny portraits. film development, so he has to improvise with a jug and a tube to aid in the film developing process.

Both Jonathan and Laura Lee emphasized more than once how much they love what they do for a living. The old-fashioned, creative process of film development brings them tremendous joy as does interacting with the people they see in the shop. By fixing cameras and restoring old pictures to their former glory, they uncover hidden treasures for families and rekindle memories thought to be long buried.

And they love creating new “old photos” for customers. People are welcome to wear modern street clothes or bring costumes if they choose.

Laura Lee hopes to someday have a supply of costumes available for patrons to the shop.

For those who would love to take part in this classic photography experience at Forgotten Film, sessions can be booked over the phone at 254-6614803 or online at https://forgottenfilm.us/. They can be found on Facebook at Forgotten Film or @forgottenfilmusa on Instagram.

By fixing cameras and restoring old pictures to their former glory, they uncover hidden treasures for families and rekindle memories thought to be long buried.

The tripod is new, but the camera dates to circa 1890.

62 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

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DON FAREK’S CAMEO HOMES Cameo Homes has been a fixture in Central Texas since opening its doors in Killeen in 1962. Through the years, Cameo Homes has built a reputaaon for excepponal quality and service.

“The quality is not only in the construccon but also the quality of the relaaonships that are formed with our buyers. We have had many repeat buyers aaer building their first home 10-20 years ago. That is a true testament to the way we like to do business”, Brandi Stokes says.

Whether building on your lot or one of their inventory lots, Cameo Homes is sure to deliver your dream home with “Your Style, Cameo Quality”.

Cameo Homes is located at 13098 State Highway 195 in Killeen, Texas. You can reach Cameo Homes by calling (254) 634-2651 or e-mailing Brandi at brandi.stokes@cameohomesdf.com

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66 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Tyler Jermstad

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If you live in Central Texas, you have most likely heard of Tyler Jermstad, your local State Farm agent. That’s what happens when your insurance guy is more than just an insurance guy! From the Salvation Army to the Temple College Foundation Board to multiple leadership committees, Tyler has done it all. His office has hosted many fundraising events, food drives and other events to give back to the community; he is a fierce advocate of the local schools, all while building a reputation as one of the top insurance agents in Texas. An expert in all things insurance, Tyler takes the time to find affordable coverage that is a perfect fit for each individual.

Armed with a friendly, efficient staff, Tyler strives to focus on personal relationships with his clients. Accessible and thorough, he and his staff always provide competitive rates and impeccable service to help life go right.

If you have ever managed the task of painting your home, you know it can be quite a chore – unless you call Will Rogers. Will owns Five Star Painting in Temple and is always ready to come to your rescue. Not only are he and his wife, Trina, experts on color and paint techniques, they are warm, personable and willing to work with you. Will has always wanted to own his own business and now he leads a team of highquality individuals while helping fulfill the desires of his beloved clients. Both natives of Texas, Will and Trina strive to capture your dreams and enhance your lifestyle by adding color to your world. They offer a two-year warranty, free color consultations and interest-free financing. The painters they employ are prompt, professional and trustworthy, in keeping with their motto: Clean.

On Time. On Budget.

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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REX KARL

MARK RENDON

BEING CENTRAL TEXAN

In Search of Community O

ur family moved to Belton in 1988 in search of community. We found opportunities to invest and engage as we discovered a community in which to sink deep roots. Like many others, we were drawn to the Belton area by the quality of life and community environment that included the things we valued. At the top of that list were high quality public schools for our children. We found schools that would nurture and challenge our kids to excel, as well as opportunities for us to engage.

It did not take long for us to find ways to connect with our community and RANDY PITTENGER schools, as we quickly became volunteers with local churches, PTAs and other school-related groups. The volunteer work was encouraging and rewarding as we found we could make a difference by showing up and being involved. That involvement eventually led to serving on the Belton ISD Board of Trustees for 24 years, and then to my current position as president/CEO of the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce.

My grandfather served for 24 years as a United States Congressman, so it was instilled in me from an early age the importance of community connections and service to community. My grandfather wisely counseled me that “all politics is local” and listening to people around you is the best way to learn how to help those in need.

I found that to be true in my experience as an elected official, and cherish the relationships that come from being connected to and listening to those with whom we live in community.

Throughout the time I served on the school board we worked diligently to maintain the community values we cherish as our school district experienced rapid growth. On many occasions when people would lament the anticipated loss of community that would come with growth, we repeated a commitment to actively working together to hold true to our values and community

spirit: a legacy of high expectations and great opportunity.

For many years when asked why I love Belton my most common response was about the community support for our kids and our schools.

The long tradition of support for our public schools is a treasured feature of our community, and demonstrates the commitment we have collectively for investing in our kids. Certainly there are numerous other aspects of our community that make it distinctive and special, but you can learn a lot about a community by how it values and invest in its children.

Another long time tradition that makes our Belton community distinctive is the great support for our churches and non-profit organizations; another indicator of the health of a community.

I am always amazed and proud of the way our community comes together to help our neighbors in need. Helping Hands Ministry of Belton, Project Apple Tree, and other similar programs are great examples of what can happen when churches and individuals work together to provide a more efficient delivery of resources.

My transition to the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce was an opportunity to continue to promote our community as a great place to live, work, shop, play and raise a family. We have experienced tremendous growth in the Belton area as more people search for such a community. While this year has created some unique challenges for our locally owned businesses, we have seen the results of working together, adapting to changing circumstances, and supporting each other.

One of the key lessons from the 2020 health and economic crisis is that we are all in this together and we are stronger together. The importance of community, of helping each other, has been evident throughout our area. While many are still struggling during this pandemic, we are encouraged by how many new businesses have opened, and how people are continuing to choose the Belton area.

Ultimately we are all in search of community. I am thankful that we found one that is special and is our home. #ILoveBelton Randy Pittenger is president and CEO of the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Boost Your Immune System with Nutrient-Dense Foods

O

Josh Knowles, D.D.S., M.S.D. Board Certified Orthodontist THE

BEST 2020

Readers’ Choice AWARD

The Right Time for an Orthodontic Check-UP? No Later than Age 7 The American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.

Early treatment may give your orthodontist the chance to: • Guide jaw growth • Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth • Correct harmful oral habits • Improve appearance • Guide permanent teeth into a favorable position • Create a more pleasing arrangement of teeth, lips & face If your child is older than 7, it’s certainly not too late for a check-up. Call us at 254-773-8028 for your complimentary consultation.

A better smile because you deserve it!

2027 S. 61st Ste. 111, Temple smileattheworld.com • 254-773-8028 70 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

ur immune system works tirelessly as our daily defense to fight off implications associated with germs, bacteria, viruses and disease. Feeding your body certain foods loaded with immune system boosting nutrients can help improve your immune system to ensure it functions at the highest CAREY STITES level regularly.

MS, RD, LD, CPT Many of the foods associated with this benefit can be purchased conveniently at the local grocery store and are easy to incorporate into a healthy lifestyle.

Leafy greens like spinach, Brussels sprouts and kale are high in vitamin C, which optimizes immune system function. Spinach is exceptional because in addition to vitamin C, spinach has numerous antioxidants and beta carotene, which may increase the infection-fighting ability of our immune system. Most leafy greens are healthiest when minimally cooked in order to retain nutrients and consuming them raw optimizes vitamin C intake.

Citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines, lemons, limes and grapefruit also contain ample amounts of vitamin C and are an easy addition to meals and snacks. To boost the immune system, consume daily vitamin C as the body does not produce or store this vitamin.

Carrots, pumpkins and sweet potatoes contain carotenoids which ultimately strengthen the immune system. Not only are carotenoids powerful antioxidants, after consumption certain carotenoids can be converted to vitamin A, which is essential to immune function. Apricots,

broccoli, cantaloupe, mangoes, nectarines, peaches and watermelon also contain vital carotenoids.

Red bell peppers are chocked full of immune system enhancers-and they contain approximately 2 times the amount of vitamin C as an orange.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, one medium orange contains about 70 milligrams of vitamin C whereas one medium red bell pepper contains 152 milligrams.

Plus, red bell peppers contain carotenoids as an added bonus.

If you are looking for a genuine superfood, look no further than broccoli. Broccoli is loaded with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, E and carotenoids. The trick with broccoli is to prepare it appropriately to conserve these important nutrients.

Raw broccoli is preferred; however, steaming is shown to preserve the nutrient content as opposed to boiling.

Vitamin D, otherwise known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is crucial to maintaining a healthy immune system.

Foods high in vitamin D are few and far between, however, fatty fish such as salmon, sardines and tuna contain relatively ample amounts. In the United States, many foods, such as milk, juice and breakfast cereals, are fortified with vitamin D. Seafood (oysters, lobster and crab), lean meat and poultry provide zinc, which plays a vital role in immune function. Zinc is responsible for the development of immune cells as is deemed “essential” as the body cannot product zinc or store this mineral. Because zinc is relatively plentiful in animal and plant foods (and even in throat lozenges and natural cold remedies), most people are not deficient. Additional sources of zinc include chickpeas, lentils, black beans, kidney beans, eggs, dairy products, whole grains and nuts and seeds.

Vitamin E is important in regulating and maintaining immune system function by warding off infiltrating bacteria and viruses. The best sources of vitamin E are sunflower oil, safflower oil, avocados and nuts such as almonds and peanuts; sunflower seeds also contain a substantial amount of vitamin E. Many foods are

fortified with vitamin E as well so it is imperative to check the nutrition label.

Now more than ever, your immune system needs to stay in tip-top condition. By consuming of nutritious foods, engaging in physical activity and maintaining mental well-being, you can ensure your body has an optimized immune system to keep

you healthy all year long!

Carey Stites is a registered and licensed dietitian located in Harker Heights. She obtained a master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from Texas Tech University has been a practicing dietitian since 2001. Carey is also an AFAA certified group fitness instructor and personal trainer; she has promoted health and wellness through presentations, classes, writing and cooking demonstrations all over Texas.

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DAYTRIPPIN’

A Slice of Heaven

TERESA ANDERSON TEACHES VISITORS ABOUT FARM LIFE

By AMY ROGNLIE | Courtesy photos

W

hy does that turkey’s head change colors?

Why do we need rain? Why are worms important to the environment?

You may not have ever thought about such questions. But they are kind of things discussed daily at the Slice of Heaven Educational Farm in Holland. The 50-acre working farm offers something for everyone.

“Here, visitors won’t just learn—they’ll get to play with our friendly farm animals, take a ride in our tractor-pulled barrel train, and touch the sky on our in-ground jump pillow,” says farm director and founder Teresa Anderson.

Visitors enjoy the petting area where they can interact with farm animals such as a rescued baby goat named Hemingway.

“We love making kids smile and watching the joy everyone experiences when they hear Zeus the donkey bray, or hold a bunny for the first time, or watch a baby chick hatch,” says Teresa. “We like to teach the children about the concept of ‘farm to table’ and how each animal on a farm has a job as either a producer or a worker.”

72 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

Teaching comes natural to Teresa, who has been involved in education her entire life. While she and her volunteer staff love educating folks of all ages, they have made Slice of Life a favorite field trip destination for local elementary students.

“We work with teachers to support their classroom topics and curriculum—anything from worm gardening to recycling to pond life to making butter,” she says. “I believe that education is an investment in our collective future.”

For those wanting a more intense experience, the farm offers birthday parties and week-long summer camps for kids from preschool through ninth grade. Horse camps are also available.

“Horse camps are a whole week of everything horses,” Teresa says with a smile. “Campers learn the foundation of horsemanship and basic riding skills, the do's and don'ts of working with horses, and the basic body language of the horse and how to use their body language to communicate with the horse. Other fun activities include bathing horses, braiding and craft projects.”

In addition to horse camp, horseback riding lessons are available year-round for both children and adults and are run according to the United States Pony Club Standards. The farm is also in the process of building both a new dressage arena and a new jumping arena.

Staffed entirely by volunteers, the farm also partners with the Bell County Co-op to offer volunteer opportunities to the special needs

IF YOU GO

Slice of Heaven Educational Farms 17851 FM 1123 in Holland 254-220-3734 (call or text) Website: sliceofheaveneducationalfarm.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/210156783260725 Check the farm’s website for special events for children and adults such as catch-andrelease fishing days, horse-drawn wagon rides, kite-flying, Easter egg hunt, and girls’ night out and plan your visit soon.

community, particularly those in the 18-22 year old age group. Teresa has a special passion for special needs children and spent years working for Peaceable Kingdom in Killeen where she led an animal therapy program that empowered special needs children to ride horses, learn how to care for farm animals, and learn about and interact with local wildlife.

“We give the young people jobs to do at the farm, but we find that we’re also doing a lot of mentoring,” Teresa reflects. “The farm is a lifelong passion of mine and a work of love to make a special place where children and adults alike can have a safe, family-friendly environment to experience interactive learning about animals, agriculture, and environmentally sustainable

practices, but my volunteers are the heart of this farm and without them I would not be here.”

Visitors to the farm can purchase a family pass or pay a reasonable admission fee per person. A small variety of snacks are available, or bring your own picnic lunch and enjoy eating at the outdoor tables or inside the spacious Science Barn.

Popular with the younger set is “Treasure Island,” an enclosed sand pit where children can dig for small toys. The farm also offers educational classes with a wide variety of upcoming topics such as eggshell gardening, flower arranging and animal digestive systems.

“We’re not overly crowded, so parents feel comfortable to sit in the shade and let the kids play and explore,” Teresa says.

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ADVERTISING INDEX 21 Main....................................................... 11, 40 AdventHealth................................................... 74 Airmax.............................................................. 29 All State/Ira Brand............................................ 67 Alter Salon........................................................ 42 Atmos............................................................... 11 Baylor Scott & White Hospice.......................... 13 Bell County Museum........................................ 12 Bentons............................................................ 15 Cameo Homes.................................................. 64

Colonial Property Management............ 20-23, 75 Cook Residential Design.................................. 49 Dapper & Dashin’ Salon & Shop...................... 40 Desert Storm Paintball..................................... 57 Donald Bulls Locksmith.................................... 54 Ebony Tea House, LLC..................................... 42 Ellis Air Systems............................................... 18 Emporium Spice Co................................... 40, 42 Extraco Banks................................................... 33 Extreme Cheer & Tumble................................... 5

Five Star Painting............................................. 67 Fuzzy’s Taco Shop............................................. 57 Gallery Design Center........................................ 5

Garlyn Shelton Auto Group................Back cover Gem Pawn Shop, Inc........................................ 40 Green Jay Sports Medicine.............................. 41 Gretchen Williams............................................ 54 Gunter Financial Services................................... 2

Healthy Success/Giebel, Dr. Shelley................. 53 Horizon Bank.................................................... 15 I Love Sushu..................................................... 25 iMERAKi........................................................... 42 John D. Bower Construction............................ 57 John Lister CPA................................................ 11 Lastovica Jewelers............................................ 39 McGuire Tire LLC............................................. 53 My Giving Tree................................................. 40

Ocean Quest Pools by Lew Akins/Sundek... 5, 49 Paperdoodles................................................... 42 Precious Memories..................................... 41, 71 Rinehart Real Estate Inspection Service........... 65 RNC Construction............................................ 15 Salon Karen...................................................... 41 Smile At The World Orthodontics.................... 70 State Farm/Tyler Jermstad............................... 67 Stellar Homes................................................... 68 Stoney Brook of Belton.................................... 49 Sugar Shack Candy Store................................. 40 Suzy Q's............................................................ 13 SWBC Mortgage.............................................. 66

Temple Area Builders.................................. 34-35 Temple Feed & Supply..................................... 13 Temple Winnelson Co...................................... 53 The Rose and Bee............................................ 41 True Heart Hospice.......................................... 29 Visiting Angels.................................................. 19 Zooty’s................................................................ 3 The publisher is not responsible for errors.

74 SPRING 2021 | TEX APPEAL

IT'S MORE IT'S MORE

THAN THAN

JUST JUST

A CAR A CAR

MAKING MEMORIES MAKING MEMORIES SINCE SINCE

1974 1974

GARLYN SHELTON AUTOGROUP www.GarlynShelton.com 254-771-0128

GARLYN SHELTON CADILLAC BUICK GMC 5625 S. General Bruce Drive • Temple

GARLYN SHELTON VOLVO MAZDA 5700 SW HK Dodgen Loop • Temple

GARLYN SHELTON NISSAN

5620 S. General Bruce Drive • Temple

BMW OF TEMPLE

6006 S. General Bruce Drive • Temple

GARLYN SHELTON VOLKSWAGEN 5700 SW HK Dodgen Loop