TexAppeal February 2014

Tex Appeal Life & Style in Central Texas

LOVE BYTES finding love online

BE MINE

valentine gift shopping guide homemade & healthy

SWEETHEART TREATS THE HEART OF TEXAS

CUTEST PETS

February 2014

Bina Bina

In the realm of environmentally conscious design, one name stands apart: Thomas Bina, a designer known as much for timeless style, as livable furnishings crafted by hand from sustainably harvested and reclaimed woods. Juxtaposing warm patinas with rough and renewed woods, his designs lend a sense of history to any space, though never appear dated. The artistic use of tone ensures every one-of-a-kind piece is a focal point able to blend beautifully with others.

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FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

2100 South 61st St. • Temple, TX • 254.935.2720 5400 Franklin Ave. • Waco, TX • 254.732.3000

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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FEBRUARY 2014

Features

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A Beautiful Bite Brush-Up on Pet Dental Care

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Sweetheart Treats

for Pets

Healthy recipes for homemade treats

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Love Bytes Middle-age, single and looking for love

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Coping with the Death of a Pet

Finding a way to memorialize your pet can be therapeutic for grief managementt

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C J A

Providing the energy for bluer skies.

T L B C

P C L l 2

Homes with natural gas appliances produce about half of the carbon dioxide emissions of all-electric homes. By choosing natural gas, you’re helping to keep our skies clear today—and for years to come.

It’s one more thing you can feel good about from Atmos Energy, your natural gas company.

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Departments

FEBRUARY 2014

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TexTalk Neighbor Seeing Red: A

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Seleese Thompson-Mann

Contributors

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A Taste of the Bayou

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Photography PRISCILLA Z PHOTOGRAPHY Hair & Make-Up

by ALDA XHINDI of ALDA X MCARTISTRY

TexTalk Flavour

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Stay Connected

ROSEMARY GALVEZ of Killeen; cutest pet winner, ALFRED of Harker Heights

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Editor’s Letter

ONTHECOVER

crusade to stop the “silent killer”

TexTalk Beauty

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TexTalk Calendar

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Valentine’s Gift Guide

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TEXHealth

Heart Rhythm

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Central Texas Pets

Tough Enough for Boot Camp?

TexTalk Scene

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Pour on the Romance

BarbWIRED

TexTalk Well Fed Head

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Advertising Index

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TexTalk Spirits

TEXFit

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TEXAdventures

Austin Live Music Capital of the World

Revive

Repair

Renew

An Advanced Skin Care Clinic

NOW OPEN AT OUR NEW LOCATION! 2919 Market Loop - Temple Next to Bloomingfield’s Florist

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Free Consultation By Appointment 254.778.0328

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Editor’s Letter

hoever said that DIAMONDS are a girl’s best friend, never owned a dog.

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 Street, Temple, TX 76501 Publisher SUE MAYBORN Director LUCIE FRALICKS Editor TERESA K. HERNANDEZ Copy Editor LEE JAMES

Sweethearts come in all shapes and sizes. Some are tall, some are short, some have long hair, some have short, some have two legs, some have four. Whatever size and packaging your sweetheart comes in, February is the month to celebrate them.

Unconditional love, forgiveness, acceptance and loyalty are what we expect in personal relationships and yet, without any expectations, that is exactly what we receive from our pets. No one is ever happier to see me than my Sugar Bear. When he hears my car coming down the gravel road, he runs to the back gate where he stands up on his hind legs to peer over the fence as he anxiously awaits my arrival.

The first thing I see as I pull up to the house is his big white furry face looming over the gate smiling at me. Yes, he does smile! He doesn’t care where I’ve been all day--he’s just thrilled I’ve finally returned. Imagine if only our mates would be this excited and happy to greet us every day. There would be a lot more happy couples and a lot fewer divorces.

A big thank you to all of our readers who shared their great pictures and stories of their sweethearts/pets with us. The Tex Appeal staff had a tough time choosing the cutest; they were all so precious. I hope you enjoy looking at their happy little faces as much as we did.

See them in Scene on page 19.

This Valentine’s Day don’t think of it as merely a Hallmark holiday, but another opportunity to remind all of your loved ones just how truly special they are to you.

Tout mon amour,

Graphic Designer/Photography JULIE NABOURS Graphic Designer CHRISTEEN CLARK Contributing Photographers PRISCILLA Z PHOTOGRAPHY, ANN VANDERGRIFF, KIM SEGHERS, JULIE NABOURS Contributing Writers JOSIE MCCLAIN, ANN VANDERGRIFF, LARRY PRICE, D.O., JESSIE OESTREICH Advertising 254.774.5264

Tex Appeal Magazine is published monthly by Frank Mayborn Enterprises,Inc., 10 S. Third Street, 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 written permission.

Subscriptions: For the United States, $24 per year, 12 issues. Mail check to P.O. Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114.

Questions about subscriptions, call 254.774.5264 Postmaster: Send address changes to: Tex Appeal Magazine, P.O. Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114.

Teresa K. Hernandez|Editor

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FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

How to contact us: Advertising: Contact Lucie Fralicks, at 254.774.5264 or via email at lfralicks@texappealmag.com Editorial: Contact Teresa K. Hernandez, at 512.734.6912 or via email at thernandez@texappealmag.com

Stay Connected We Hear You… A few thoughts from our readers. Keep the letters coming!

RESCUE KITTEN It was a very rainy evening in October when a woman saw something crawling through the mud in her backyard. She went out to see what it was and heard little meows coming from a dirty lump in the grass.

She scooped it up and brought it inside where she and girls washed the mud away and warmed the little kitten. They were unable to find the kitten’s mother and the kitten was given to us to care for until a permanent home was found. When he came to our home, Taylor Baby was close to 5 weeks old and, I think, weighed only 6 ounces. The vet gave us instructions to get food in the little guy and to keep him warm. As you can see, he has grown strong and has distinct markings. His personality is as cute as his looks and he won’t be looking for any other home—he’s ours.

­—MIKE & BARB FOHEY

INTERNATIONAL RESCUE This is my baby “Lazy” he is a Maltese. He was born in South Korea and we rescued him when he was 6 months old.

Lazy turned 10 years old on Jan. 1, He is my baby and I believe the cutest ever.

—JUANITA DAVILA

OVERCOMING PET GRIEF Dee and her son Billy. Dee passed away in February at age 17.5, a good long life. Billy was just two months shy of his 13th birthday when I lost

him very unexpectedly due to a fast-growing liver tumor. I was absolutely devastated. For about three days I didn’t think I would ever get another dog, but since a little white fluffy dog had graced my bed for 28 successive years (my first Bichon lived to 17), I realized I could not go on without the company of a little white dog.

I wrote every reputable breeder and handler within driving distance of Harker Heights, searching for a mature dog.

Well-bred dogs need rescue too, as they are often part of a breeding or showing program and grow up in kennels- not with families. Kennels are not the same as a home. Within two days I heard from a well-known breeder, Scott Sommer.

His Bichon Frise “JR” won best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club in 2001.

He emailed me on a Wednesday and the following Saturday, May 25, 2013, I headed to Houston to pick up Miss Betty Boop. She is a wonderful, sweet, loving dog and has helped me fill the hole in my broken heart.

I got to rescue a beautiful, sweet girl and she has been a loving friend to me ever since. She celebrated her 5th birthday in August. Betty Boop is my miracle love-bundle.

—COLLEEN JANE MCGRATH,

Harker Heights

Turn Your Feelings into Flowers!

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Send your letters to thernandez@texappealmag.com.

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Contributors

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1 Josie McClain

was born in a Pennslyvania steel town. A business development director in the luxury real estate auction industry, she shares her passion for life through writing on a broad range of subjects. Josie and her three children enjoy gardening, crafting with recyclables and indoor rock climbing and bouldering together in their spare time. jnwriteright55@gmail.com

2 Jessie Oestreich, CPT

is the region director and head trainer for Camp Gladiator. She has been training in Central Texas since her college days when she was on the Baylor Crew (rowing team), and was an amateur boxer for the Waco Boxing Club. After college she pursued a career with a Fortune 500 company, but realized her true passion was in health and fitness. She left the corporate world to train full time and started Camp Gladiator in Central Texas in 2011 with locations in Bell and McClennan Counties. She enjoys sharing the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and exercising with everyone regardless of their fitness level. campgladiatorwaco.com.

3 Dr. Larry Price

received his medical degree from the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth, followed by postgraduate training at Osteopathic Medical Center of Texas, Texas A&M University Health Science Center/ Scott & White and Mayo Graduate School of Medicine.

He is a staff cardiac electrophysiologist at Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia in Austin and a provider for Metroplex Hos-

pital. Dr. Price is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Critical Care Medicine, and Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology.

4 Priscilla Z. Linnemann

is a native Texan and army brat. She discovered a passion for photography at the age of 19 when she began her career. Before becoming an independent photographer, Priscilla owned and operated a national chain of studios from South Texas to Houston. Her work is recognized throughout Central Texas and now nationally.

Her photography is frequently featured in the online lifestyle magazine, Popular Hispanics. Priscilla continues to find inspiration as she explores and studies her trade.

She lives in Belton with her husband and two children. priscillazphotography.com.

FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

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5 Ann Vandergriff

following her arrow has pointed this Bell County native towards all things creative. While finishing her last year of college Ann discovered a passion for creating, entertaining, and the art of reinvention- changing ordinary into extraordinary. DIY projects-home decor, refinishing furniture, beauty and fashion, entertaining and party planning, photography, as well as anything and everything else in between. This busy boutique owner, photographer, blogger, fashionasita, wife, and mother of two is happiest when inspiring, teaching, and sharing her creative ideas with others on her DIY lifestyle blog. therusticredhead.blogspot.com.

Let your voice be heard 10

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We are always looking for fresh talent. If you are a writer, illustrator or photographer, please forward your work samples and resume to Editor, Teresa K. Hernandez at thernandez@texappealmag.com.

We want to hear from you.

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Seeing RED

A crusade to stop the “silent killer�

By TERESA K. HERNANDEZ

TOP LEFT: Donna Dunn, Gayla Fossum, Millie Henn, and Susan Holmes.

A group of local women has joined forces and made it their mission to raise money for the American Heart Association(AHA) to help fund its life-saving medical research, promote awareness, and advocate healthier lifestyles.

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Did you know that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the U.S., making it more deadly than all forms of cancer combined?

It is also the leading cause of death in men in the U.S., followed by stroke, which is also caused by cardiovascular disease.

The American Heart Association estimates that nearly 43 million women are affected by cardiovascular disease in the U.S., resulting in some 400,000 deaths annually. Nicknamed the “silent killer,” women generally overlook or dismiss their symptoms, sometimes attributing them to other non-threatening conditions. Women are usually not proactive about scheduling regular health checks. Only one in five women realize they are at risk for this lifethreatening health condition.

The U.S. spends more than $312.6 billion a year on costs related to cardiovascular disease – heart disease, heart attacks, and

Susan Holmes, chairman of Paint the Ranch Red Gala 12

FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

strokes. There is still good news and a lot of hope. Eighty-two percent of all heart disease cases are preventable through good diet, regular exercise and living a healthy lifestyle.

“There are two things that can turn these statistics around, one being education and two being medical research,” says Susan Holmes, chairman of Paint the Ranch Red all of the incredible life-saving procedures, Gala. “Through education we know we medicines, medical devices, transplants, and can help others identify their risk factors other advanced technologies that doctors are and teach them how to eat better and live a using today,” says Millie Henn, a heart disease healthier lifestyle to prevent having a major prevention advocate and survior in Temple. incident. Through medical research grants, “Thanks to the AHA, not only can we save we can find more ways to save and extend more lives, but we can extend life. Forty years lives from those who have already had major ago patients often died before they could incidents.” receive a heart transplant. Today, doctors The Paint the Ranch Red Gala is now can implant in its 10th $ year. This The AHA has granted over 1.1 million dollars p a c e m a k e r s , a n n u a l in medical research grants to six studies in Bell defibrillators or a mechanical pumpe v e n t County– five of which are taking place at the ventricular-assist promotes (LVADs) awareness Texas A&M Health Science Center-College of device and raises Medicine and the other at the Cardiovascular which can keep a patient’s heart funds to Research Institute at Scott & White. pumping until support they can receive their transplant or even medical research. “Last year we ended up indefinitely. The AHA is responsible for all netting about $50,000 for the American of these medical advancements thanks to Heart Association,” says Susan. “Ultimately, their medical research grants.” all of this money came right back into the Millie is actively involved with Mended community through the $1.1 million in Hearts, a national support group for heart medical research grants in Temple.” patients and their caregivers, the AHA and

“AHA’s medical research is why we have

Heart disease is still the No. 1 killer of women, taking the life of 1 in 3 women each year.

Give the women you care about the power to save their lives at GoRedForWomen.org .

Š2010, American Heart Association. Also known as the Heart Fund.

TM Go Red trademark of AHA, Red Dress trademark of DHHS

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The 2014 Texas Chic Paint the Ranch Red, Gala will be Saturday, March 29, at Tenroc Ranch in Salado. the local gala, and Women Heart -a national support group for female heart patients.

The event’s line-up includes a dinner by The Range at the Barton House in Salado, entertainment and master of ceremonies by two local celebrities from KCEN. Judge Jon H. Burrows, a heart attack survior, is the keynote speaker.

Come dressed cowboy cool or cowgirl chic in your best jeans and boots, or in your favorite dress—the choice is yours. Get ready to kick up your heels and dance the night away under the beautiful Texas stars, have pictures made with some real Texas longhorns, and be ready to do some bidding for some beautiful items for a great cause in this year’s silent and live auctions.

For more information on reservations, please contact Donna Dunn at 254.913.1705.

Tickets are $125 per person or $225 per couple, or a table for eight for $1,000. RSVP deadline: Friday, March 14.

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Warning Signs of Heart Attack, Stroke and Cardiac Arrest HEART ATTACK Discomfort in chest or upper body Shortness of breath Cold sweat Back pain Nausea Lightheadness

STROKE Face drooping Arm weakness Speech difficulty

CARDIC ARREST Sudden loss of responsiveness No normal breathing

If you, or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms begin to subside, CALL 9-1-1 or get them to a hospital immediately.

For more information on cardiovascular disease, treatment options, symptoms, or prevention, visit the American Heart Association at Heart.org.

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neighbor TEX

Paint the Ranch Red Presenting Sponsors:

Scott & White Healthcare Metroplex Cardiac and Vascular Center Mike & Linda Cornett, Tenroc Ranch KCEN HD-TV The Inn on the Creek Opportunities for sponsorship are still available. This year’s event is offering six categories of sponsorship packages: presenting sponsor ($15,000), auction/media/ entertainment ($10,000), ruby sponsor ($5,000), crimson sponsor ($2,500), scarlett sponsor ($1,000) and patron sponsor ($500).

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A Taste of the Bayou

By TERESA K. HERNANDEZ Photos by KIM SEGHERS

Fresh seafood

is always just a few steps out the back door and in your backyard when you live on the bayou in Louisiana. For the families who live along the bayou, it is long-standing tradition to concoct recipes using a variety of fresh seafood or whatever else happens to be onhand, - the catch of the day - and to invite all their friends and family over to enjoy the feast on the back porch.

“Living right on the water, my husband raised soft-shell crabs he caught from the bayou for a hobby for many years,” says Kim Seghers. “When we had guests over, they would always inquire about the big white boxes that were set up along the back fence.

This is where we kept the soft-shell crabs until they were ready to shed.”

One evening after a big crawfish boil, Kim and her husband Harold were in the kitchen prepping some of the soft-shell crabs and peeling leftover crawfish to freeze.

That is when they came up with the idea of making Louisiana crawfish and soft-shell crab over angel hair pasta. It quickly became one of their favorite dishes and one their friends and family frequently request.

Kim, a mommy blogger, frequently shares family recipes and ideas on her blog This Ole Mom. After living in Central Texas for many years, Kim moved back to Southern Louisiana, where she lives with her husband and 4-year-old son Ryan. She “lives to cook,” especially traditional Louisiana and family recipes she enjoyed as a child growing up on the bayou.

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Angel Hair Pasta with Louisiana Crawfish & Soft-Shell Crab Yields: 4 servings INGREDIENTS:

4 fresh soft-shell crabs 1 lb. peeled crawfish tails 2- 16 oz. bags of Louisiana Seasoned Crispy Chicken Fry cooking oil for deep fryer 8 oz. package of angel hair pasta 1 cup milk 1 stick butter 1 tbsp mustard

4 eggs salt & pepper to your liking *optional a sprinkle of cayenne pepper ¾ cup whipping cream (plus 1 tbsp cornstarch) ½ tsp cornstarch ½ cup fresh parsley ½ cup green onions (optional: 1/2 cup chopped green onions to garnish)

2 tsp minced garlic

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flavour TEX PREPARATION:

1

Clean the soft-shell crabs. It is the most important step. See adjacent instructions.

2

Make a milk bath using 1 cup of milk, 1 tablespoon of mustard, and 4 eggs. Whisk in a bowl. Place soft-shell crabs in the milk bath and place in the refrigerator.

3

Boil your angel hair pasta. As your pasta is cooking, melt 1 stick of butter in a pan. When your butter is melted, stir in parsley, green onions, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir in crawfish tails and cook over low heat for 5 minutes (until the crawfish is heated through)

4

Heat the oil in a deep fryer. As the oil is heating, add 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream to the pan with the crawfish mixture (do not let this boil).

Mix 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon whipping cream in a small bowl. Add this to the crawfish sauce to thicken. Stir until the sauce is warm and thick. Cover with a lid and remove from heat.

5 When oil is heated to 350 degrees,

take out your soft-shell crabs and coat them evenly on both sides in a bowl of Louisiana Chicken Fry, one at a time.

Fry one crab at a time. Using a pair of tongs hold the crab’s legs down in the oil. Then flip the crab over and let it cook until it floats to the top.

Remove and place on a platter lined with paper towel.

6

Put a serving of pasta on a plate and place one softshell crab on top. Spoon the crawfish sauce over the top. Garnish with the remaining chopped green onions and serve.

Share your favorite flavours

How to Clean Soft-Shell Crabs You may be able to request your local fish market to clean your soft-shell crabs for you. If not, it can be done in these four easy steps at home.

Cleaning a soft-shell crab involves removing the gills, the apron, and snipping off the eyes and mouth. This simple process is very similar to cleaning a fish. The key is to remove all of these chewy, cartilaginous pieces so that your crab is buttery and tender.

Always choose crabs that are still alive and moving and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to clean—just before cooking. *Do not worry, soft-shell claws do not pinch.

1

Rinse the soft-shell crab under cold running water.

2 First, using a pair of sharp kitchen shears, cut

off the mouth and eyes all in one snip. (Cut about ¼–inch behind the eyes) This will kill the crab.

3 Lift up the top shell on the outer corner and

reach in and remove the fibrous gills. Repeat on the other side.

4

Flip the crab over and remove the bottom shell, also known as the central apron. (A wide apron means it is a female, a narrow apron means it’s a male.)

3

Left and right outer corner, lift and remove gills (lungs).

2

Cut horizontally across, ¼ inch behind eyes to remove mouth and eyes in one snip

We are always searching for fresh, new recipes to share with our readers. If you have a great all-original or family recipe, please forward it along with photographs to thernandez@texappealmag. com. We want to hear about the flavours you love to serve.

TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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BEAUTY IN THE

BAG

THE WOMAN IN RED February is the busiest month of the year for this woman in red - Seleese Thompson-Mann. The owner of Precious Memories Florist & Gift Shop in Temple, this wife and mother of four is hard at work playing cupid. She’s made DELIVERING LOVE her business!

by TERESA K HERNANDEZ

BET TIP IN HER BAG “Money smells so terrible. I hate to handle it, so I take a pair of the cardboard air fresheners made for cars and fold my money in between the fragrant cards. When I take my money out to pay for somethingeveryone always comments on how nice it smells. Not only does this little trick work on my cash, but it also keeps my purse and everything else in it smelling nice and fragrant.”

THE ESSENTIALS SHE CARRIES TYLER HAND LOTION This keeps my hands nice and soft. But most of all, my favorite thing about Tyler Hand Lotion is the wonderful fragrance.

My favorite scent is HIGH MAINTENANCE.

CLINQUE LONG LAST LIPSTICK The color…no surprise, RED RED RED. Red is my signature color.

CLINQUE BLUSHING BLUSH POWDER BLUSH Silky and always highlights the cheeks naturally. My favorite color is BERRY DELIGHT.

OTHER THINGS I ALWAYS KEEP IN MY BAG… I am known for always having wipes in my purse - and I also keep a box of them in my car. A tooth brush and toothpaste.

My Icelandic Glacial Water - I love the fact it comes in an oversized bottle, a full 16.9 oz. to keep me hydrated. At least one Kind Bar. My favorite is peanut and dark chocolate. It’s not only great tasting — it’s a great source of protein and gives me that extra energy I need on a busy day.

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FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

photographs by JULIE NABOURS

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Central Texas Pets with Tex Appeal

ALFRED

ABBY

BELLE

Congratulations to Adorable Alfred–the winner of our 2014 Cutest Pet in Central Texas contest. This 3-year-old Yorkshire Terrier lives in Harker Heights with his proud momma Sarah Hubbert.

BEBE

BUTTERCUP

CHLOE BINGO BETTY JAXON

GINGER

CHLOE DIXIE

DAPH TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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DOODLE BUG

FRED

COCO

HARLEY DAVIDSON

BABYGIRL

HENRY

GENERAL TOBY

JEWELS

JODY

LOU LOU

LAZY

MACY

LILA

The lawn you want. Minus the work you don’t.

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FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

Talk

scene TEX

MIA

LUCY NELLIE BETH

MOLLY

ROSIE

OMNI

ROMEO

RUGER AND RETTA

ROCKY

RAMBO

PRISSI

MISS KITTY

OX

RUSTY TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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Be ...

Mine!

SAMMY AND SMOKIE

Say it from your heart

• Regularly Scheduled Classes (see our schedule online) • 2-Hour Classes $35/Person • 3-Hour Classes $45/Person • Private Parties Available

716 Indian Trail Ste. 220, Harker Heights 254.939.0182 paintingwithatwist.com/harker-heights

SANCHO PANZA

7348 W. Adams Ave. Ste. 400, Temple 254.228.5548 paintingwithatwist.com/temple

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FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

SPIKY

TAYLOR BABY

TEX

TURBO

TUFFY

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spirits TEX

Pour on the Romance

Chocolate Covered Cherry Martini Ingredients: 1 ½ oz. Cherry Vodka 1 ½ oz. White Crème de Cacao Splash of cherry juice or grenadine Splash of cranberry juice Dark chocolate, melted Maraschino cherries for garnish

Instructions: Rim glass with melted dark chocolate and swirl chocolate into glass. In a shaker with ice, combine vodka, crème de cacao, cherry juice and cranberry juice.

Shake well to blend. Strain into glass (trying not to disturb the chocolate).

Garnish with maraschino cherries drizzled with chocolate.

“Sweet cherries with decadent chocolate creates lovers bliss and this quintessential sweetheart cocktail for Valentine’s Day” 602 Center Circle, Salado TX 254.947.5554 | www.inncreek.com photograph by JULIE NABOURS

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MODERN LOVE: The Grownup’s Guide to Relationships & Online Dating

By Cija Black Modern Love will help you consider your past relationship baggage, look through your relationship assumptions and teach you how to apply that information to a focused search for love off and online.

Modern Love takes a unique approach to the topics of relationships and online dating. There are a million and one books out there about improving your relationships OR online dating, but this one combines the two. Modern Love asks you to review your relationship baggage, identify your relationship expectations and then produce a truthful engaging online dating profile. The lessons learned from preparing an online profile will be beneficial even if you decide online dating isn’t for you.

Paperback / 182 pages / 2012 / Cija Brown Consulting

LOVE AT FIRST CLICK: The Ultimate Guide to Online Dating

By Laurie Davis One in five relationships starts on an online dating site, but little s t r a i g h t fo r w a rd guidance exists for users. Enter digital dating whisperer Laurie Davis . . .

In a world in which we communicate as much via texts as we do through body 24

FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

language, this book empowers readers to log on and double click for love, taking them through the journey all online daters face, from choosing the right site, creating a profile, and navigating dates, to logging off with their perfect match.

Love @ First Click is every online dater’s guide to exploring the web with no-fail techniques. For example, uploading the right photos can attract someone who might otherwise pass you over. Setting a time limit on the first meet-up can leave your date excited to see you again. And the phrasing in your date’s thank-you text after dinner can uncover how your click mate really feels about you.

Whether you are a digital dating vet or a rookie, this is the ultimate guide to online dating that will take your online crush to offline love.

Paperback / 356 pages / 2013 / Atria Books

SURROUNDED

BY ENEMIES: What if Kennedy Survived Dallas?

By Bryce Zabel If President John Kennedy had survived the ambush at Dealey Plaza in Dallas a halfcentury ago, what other twists might history have taken? In his meticulously researched novel, Surrounded by Enemies: What If Kennedy Survived Dallas?, author Bryce Zabel delivers a supercharged but plausible alternative narrative of the turbulent 1960s after our charismatic president escapes unscathed on November 22, 1963.

Since the assassination, other writers have speculated about the important work for peace and equality that President Kennedy could have done had his life been spared. Instead, Zabel, a Writers Guild award-winning Hollywood writer and producer, boldly re-imagines a shocking post-1963 political scenario that is painfully

disruptive to the nation, culminating in a Constitutional crisis and even calls for the president’s impeachment. Without resorting to sci-fi gimmicks, Zabel instead investigates and explores what we now know about the underbelly of JFK’s presidency to portray him returning to a very different Washington, D.C., where the stakes are high on so many fronts. After all, someone had just tried to execute him in broad daylight on a public street in front of a national television audience. The president and his brother, Attorney General Robert Kennedy, essentially become the first conspiracy theorists, determined to strike back at their formidable and determined enemies. This is not a time-travel story with a protagonist sent back to save JFK. It is not a rose-colored-glasses look at an idealized “what if.” Instead we get a hard look at the dark secrets of the Kennedy administration and of those who have the motive and means to brutally remove him from office, including government insiders at the CIA, FBI, Secret Service and even suspects such as Vice President Lyndon Johnson.

The provocative and compelling narrative covers the period from Kennedy’s near-miss in Dallas through the subsequent political earthquake of 1964-1966. We witness the president interact with his family and close circle of famous friends and colleagues, with the colorful politicians and government leaders of that era, and with such sixties icons as the Beatles, Marilyn Monroe, boxer Cassius Clay and astronaut Neil Armstrong.

Zabel’s novel is cleverly presented as a commemorative retrospective assembled by contemporaneous journalists on the staff of a fictitious newsmagazine, Top Story -- and incorporates into the narrative realistically designed faux-magazine covers depicting JFK with those luminaries he gets to meet only in Zabel’s parallel universe. Surrounded

by Enemies literally breathes new life into the Kennedy years and intimately portrays a decade even more surreal than the one found in conventional history books.

Kindle Edition / 250 pages / 2013 / Green

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well fed head TEX TRAVELS WITH CHARLEY

By John Steinbeck In September 1960, John Steinbeck and his poodle, Charley, embarked on a journey across America. A picturesque tale, this chronicle of their trip meanders through scenic back roads and speeds along anonymous superhighways, moving from small towns to growing cities to glorious wilderness oases.

Travels with Charley: In Search of America, originally published in 1962, provides an intimate and personal look at one of America’s most beloved writers in the later years of his life. It is a self-portrait of a man who never wrote an explicit autobiography.

It was written during a time of upheaval and racial tension in the South, which Steinbeck witnessed firsthand, and is a stunning evocation of America on the eve of a tumultuous decade.

Paperback / 214 pages / 2002 (first published in 1962) / Penguin

BOOKMARKS 10TH ANNUAL BOOK & AUTHOR LUNCHEON February 22

Thursdays 9 a.m.

10 a.m.

6 p.m.

Toddler Time Family Story Hour Thursday Night Family Story Time

KILLEEN PUBLIC LIBRARY MAIN BRANCH Tuesdays 10:15 a.m. Story Time (0-5 yrs) 6:30 p.m. Story Time (0-10yrs) Wednesdays 10:15 a.m. Story Time (0-5 yrs) COPPER MOUNTAIN BRANCH Mondays 5:30 p.m. Story Time (0-8 yrs) Tuesdays 10:15 a.m. Story Time (0-5 yrs) 11:15 a.m. Story Time (0-5 yrs) Wednesdays 10:15 a.m. Story Time (0-5 yrs) SALADO PUBLIC LIBRARY Mondays 11 a.m. Children’s Story Time COPPERAS COVE PUBLIC LIBRARY Tuesdays 10 a.m. Story TIme

This book and author luncheon is hosted by the Friends of the Lena Armstrong Public Library and includes: lunch, presentations by three local authors and a silent auction.

Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Reservations are required for the fundraising luncheon, $30 per person. For more information, contact Mike.anderson@indecosales.com

Thursdays 10 a.m. Toddler Time

February 12-15 Temple Public Library Mid-Winter Used Book Sale

Paws to Read The library has friendly, gentle certified therapy dogs who visit regularly to sit with children as they practice reading.

Paws to Read is irregularly scheduled. To sign up, call the Children’s Department at 298-5557.

Lord Conference Center University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Belton

HARKER HEIGHTS LIBRARY Mondays 9 a.m.

Infant Lap Sit

TEMPLE PUBLIC LIBRARY Tuesdays 11 a.m. Baby Bookworms Wednesdays and Thursdays 10:15 a.m. Toddler Story Time 11:15 a.m. Preschool Story Time

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TEXTalk calendar FEB 2 Groundhog Day FEB 3 Super Bowl Sunday FEB 10 Chinese New Year FEB 12 Mardi Gras FEB 14 Valentine’s Day FEB 17 Random Acts of Kindness Day FEB 18 President’s Day FEB 20 Love Your Pet Day FEB 23 National Dog Biscuit Day

American Heart Month National Pet Dental Health Month Black History Month Library Lovers Month Children’s Dental Health Month Responsible Pet Owners Month FEBRUARY 6 Fort Hood’s Bi-Annual Hood Howdy Hood Howdy is a Newcomer’s Information Fair conducted by the ACS Relocation Readiness Program in partnership with Family and Morale, Welfare, Recreation.

“Saddle up for the ride” is the theme, featuring a Texas-style welcome. More than 150 agencies and businesses provide information on local programs, activities, housing, emergency services, commissary and medical services. Family and MWR agencies are available to discuss their services, such as financial counseling, recreational activities, job search assistance and Child Youth School Services. For those with specific concerns or questions, one-onone information is available. Newcomers are given the opportunity to win prizes. Time: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Free.

Club Hood, Bldg. 5746, 24th Street & Tank Destroyer Blvd., Fort Hood

FEBRUARY 6-8 Bell County PRCA Rodeo Tickets are available at the Expo Center business office, Texas Box Office outlets including texasboxoffice.com or charge by phone 512.477.6060. Adult: $17 reserved, $15 general admission; kids 12 & under: $14 reserved, $11 general admission. Family 4-Pack: $12 reserved, $10 general admission.

Time: 7:30 p.m. each night.

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FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

Bell County Expo Center, 301 Texas 121 Loop, Belton FEBRUARY 7-16 Caroline, Or Change It is 1963 in Lake Charles, La., and Caroline is a single mother of four working as a black maid for a white Jewish family in the midst of the Civil Rights Movement. When money turns up missing, fragile friendships are threatened and Caroline, resistant to change, must face the reality of the evolving world around her. Feb.7-8 at 7 p.m.; Feb. 9 at 2 p.m.; Feb. 14-15 at 7 p.m.; Feb. 16 at 2 p.m. Adults $20; seniors/military $18, and students $15. For more information call 254.526.9090.

Vives Les Arts Theatre, 3201 S. W.S. Young Dr., Killeen

FEBRUARY 7 A Knight at the Races This virtual 10-race program, food, fun and a silent auction is sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 9930. Individual horse sales (name your horse, owner and jockey) and race sponsorships are available.

Sponsors can name their race. Donations of items or gift certificates for the silent auction are accepted until Feb. 6. Funds raised are used to support the community. For more information or to purchase horses, sponsor a race or donate items, call Ed Szeman at 254.698.6539 or Charlie Fitzpatrick at 254.289.2140. Time: 6–9 p.m.

St. Paul Chong Hasang Parish Center, 2412 Stillhouse Lake Rd., Harker Heights

FEBRUARY 7 Go Red For Women Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States, claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined. For 10 years the American Heart Association has sponsored National Wear Red Day to raise awareness in the fight against heart disease in women.

FEBRUARY 8 Salado on the Rocks Take life with a grain of salt, a slice of lime,

and a shot of Salado! Late-night shopping, dining and signature mixed drinks. Time: 5-9 p.m. For more information call 254.947.8634 or email dcharbonneau@saladotx.gov.

Downtown Salado

FEBRUARY 14 Red Dirt Mardi Gras featuring Casey Donahew Band It’s the Fourth Annual Red Dirt Mardi Gras featuring the Casey Donahew Band with special guests Roger Creager and Bart Crow. Time: 7:30 p.m. General admission “festival style” (no chairs on floor) tickets are $22 in advance or $27 the day of the show, plus service charge. Tickets are available at Bell County Expo Center Box Office and Texas Box Office Outlets including select HEB stores.

Bell County Expo Center, 301 Texas 121 Loop, Belton

FEBRUARY 15 Red Neck Nationals Mud, Truck, and Tractor Pull Rev up for the 4x4 Hot Rod Mud Bog and Truck N’ Tractor Pull. There will also be flat track motorcycle and outlaw lawn mower racing. For more information on tickets or times, visit www.badboysofracing. com.

Bell County Expo Center, 301 Texas 121 Loop, Belton

FEBRUARY 21-23 Temple Area Builders Association Home & Garden Show See the latest in home and garden design.

Doors are open from 6–9 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday and 12 p.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday.

Bell County Expo Center, 301 Texas 121 Loop, Belton

February 22 Harker Heights Kiwanis Pancake Supper This event raises funds for local scholarships and children’s programs. All-you-can-eat pancakes, bacon, sausage, coffee, tea, juice and milk. Adults $6, children under 12– $4.

Talk

calendar TEX Time: 5:30 – 8 p.m. Raffle items and door prizes are donated by local businesses. Contact Harker Heights Kiwanis Club Vice President P. Charles Sweeney at 254.690.8899 or by email at www.kiwanisharkerheights.org.

along Main Street, provide art scholarships to students and coordinate art events in local schools. Time: 6–9 p.m. For more information call 254.947.8634 or email dcharbonneau@saladotx.gov.

Harker Heights Elementary School, 726 S. Ann Blvd., Harker Heights

Salado Sculpture Garden, Historic Village of Salado

FEBRUARY 22 Taste of Salado Enjoy an evening of culinary delights while taking in the sights and sounds of the historic Village of Salado. Sponsored by the Public Arts League of Salado, the event includes a fine art auction. Proceeds are used to promote and maintain the Salado Sculpture Garden, display more public art

FEBRUARY 22-23 Salado’s Treasures of Texas Past Antique show sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary. Feb. 22, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; Feb. 23, 12–4 p.m. Admission is $2 per day, per person. For more information call 254.947.8634.

To list an event

Salado Silver Spur Theater, 108 Royal Street, Salado

If you would like to have your event featured in the TexTalk calendar, please email the title, date, full description of the event and activities, including the address and contact information/web address to: thernandez@texappealmag.com.

*DEADLINE for March submissions is February 12.

Japanese Steak & Sushi

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Charlie’s!

5510 West Adams, Temple 76502 (Corner of Kegley and Adams)

Mention this ad for

Come see us for various Lunch Specials and Happy Hours Open 7 Days A Week

Buy One Get One Free Croissants or Chicken Sandwiches

We do catering!

Call for packages and options 254-771-4270 TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

A Beautiful Bite Brush-Up on Pet Dental Care

Routine dental care can help take a BIG BITE out of serious health risks and ensure your pet stays healthy and happy.

By JOSIE MCCLAIN

How many words do you think it would take for you to describe how you feel about your pet? Great writers are known for capturing great moments in their words. Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Edith Wharton captured the essence, love, and companionship of a pet when she wrote, “My little old dog: a heartbeat at my feet.”

It only took nine simple words for Wharton to express the deep connection she felt with another living creature, one of her many beloved dogs -- the heartbeat at her feet.

February is National Pet Dental Month, a whole month dedicated to just the care of pets’ teeth.

Why?

The answer is simple. Pet dental care is as vital to our pets’ lives just as it is to our own. However, even knowing this, completely dedicated and loving pet owners will sometimes push the dental care needs of their furriest friends to the bottom of their pet care agenda.

When a child has a loose tooth, if parents are not lucky enough to be present when it falls out, they instead find out about the event from caregivers, educators and school nurses.

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cotton swabs a few times a week gets them slowly adjusted to more progressive care.

Veterinary examinations can be stressful for all types of pets. So, anything that helps them to be more comfortable being examined at home also helps them to be more comfortable being examined by veterinary facility staff. The safety of the pets and caregivers, whether personal or professional, should always be a priority. Each new step added to the dental care routines should always be done in a calm and gentle manner. This sets the pet caregiver teams up for success.

The importance of caring for your pet’s teeth cannot be stressed enough. Just as in humans, infected gums and decaying teeth can directly affect vital body systems, such as the heart, lungs and digestive system.

Each type of

Likewise, when an individual has a toothache, they are able to reach for pain medication and to make the decision to call a dentist and make an appointment to have his or her teeth examined.

Pet’s symptoms, however, often go unnoticed until their annual veterinarian visit. Sadly, by this time, diseases such as periodontitis, a destructive and painful dental disease, can tighten its grip on a pet’s health. The disease feeds on bacteria and infection for its energy to destroy the support system of the teeth – the tissues and bones that support and surround each tooth. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to progressive tooth loss. This directly affects the whole body system and makes eating difficult and painful for our friends that count on us as providers of this life-dependent need.

One common sign of possible dental problems in pets is bad breath. According to the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), “normal doggie-breath isn’t particularly freshsmelling.” On the other hand, “especially offensive” breath accompanied by other signs is often a strong indicator that it may be time to make an appointment with a veterinarian.

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Possible signs of dental problems that an owner might notice include: • A lack of appetite or difficulty chewing food • Pawing at the mouth area • Loose teeth • Excessive drooling • Inflamed and or discolored gums • Discolored teeth • Tumors and cysts Some of these signs might be noticed when feeding or playing with pets. Others might only be realized during direct inspection of the pet’s mouth.

Ve t e r i n a r i a n s recommend inspecting pet’s mouth for irregularities and disease as early in life as possible.

Probing a puppy’s lips, gums, teeth and tongue by hand and with

pet may be affected differently. For instance, feline symptoms of dental decline, such as gum inflammation and mouth ulcers, might also be indicators of kidney and respiratory illness.

With so much that can go wrong in a pet’s mouth, what can be done to prevent some of it from happening in the first place? Many of those answers can be found on various animal care websites, as well as through local veterinary offices and nonprofit animal rescue and welfare organizations such as the ASPCA, SPCA of Texas, and Texas Humane Heroes. Each of these organizations is dedicated to improving the lives of animals.

If they are unable to provide services or answers, they may be aware of other available resources that can help.

As Ben Franklin once said, “An

ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”Procedures such as cleaning and filing teeth, especially those of an equine, can be painful and frightening and also add up in costs. Anesthetizing, X-raying, and operating

Sniff your pet’s breath, push back their lips to check the condition and color of gums and teeth, and inspect closely. Although Mr. Ed the TV talking horse could speak perfect English, it is generally unheard of for a pet to be able to translate whinnies and whines into English. You must inspect!

Each type of pet may have similar needs, but some also require unique dental diets and treatment options.

A horse, of course, is much larger than a guinea pig, but both have a common need to chew in order to keep the size of some of their teeth to a certain length for optimal grinding of food. Horses, rabbits, chinchillas, and various rodent pets all have different types of teeth that grow differently with some of their teeth growing continuously throughout their lives. If an equine’s teeth needs to be floated in order

…pull up your sleeves and prepare to get slobbered on and pawed in the name of love. can be costly, but are often necessary to ensure animal patients are taken care of without traumatizing or injuring them.

Some tips offered by pet professionals are all about face-to-face hands-on preventative actions. So, pick up a cotton swab or brush, pull up your sleeves and prepare to get slobbered on and pawed in the name of love.

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to reduce them to a comfortable chewing size or shape, they will generally require sedation, and the procedure should be performed by a trained veterinarian.

When any of these types of animals are kept as domestic pets compared to living in the wild, they require specific diets and types of care for their teeth to function properly.

And if they do not receive these proper diets and dental care their teeth might grow too long, become misaligned, or even become abnormally shaped. If this happens and the animal does not receive corrective dental treatment, it could face starvation and death.

Some possible signs of horse dental problems: • Difficulty chewing or dropping food from their mouths • Abnormal weight loss • Undigested food particles in manure • Resistance to bridling or difficulty handling while riding • Head-tossing • Mouth odors or visual abnormalities of the mouth, teeth and gums • Swelling or discharge in the facial area, including the nose

Various imaging techniques are not only helpful but might also be the only viable means to help diagnose and examine various pet dental problems. The use of dental radiology and computed tomography (CT scans) can be costly, so pet owner education on dental care and routine veterinary examinations are necessary for the well-being of the animal.

Veterinarian offices, humane societies, and shelters are great sources for literature on pet dental care, as well as insurance policies that might offer dental coverage.

Some insurance providers offer one or more free months of coverage on pets adopted from shelters, so make sure to ask before you commit to a policy and payments.

Some signs of possible dental problems in rabbits, chinchillas and rodent pets: • Poor or selective eating (anorexic) 32

FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

• Tooth elongation and or malformation

inspection of gums, teeth and tongues (of pets of course)

• Facial, nasal, eye, or under jaw discharge

• Two to three weekly brushings and gum massages with a soft pet toothbrush and pet toothpaste

• Bulging eyes

• Annual veterinarian dental exam

• Excessive salivation or signs of slobbering

• Plenty of attention and love!

Some of the saddest proof for the need of pet dental care is evidenced by abandoned and mistreated animals.

E r i n Fehily, director of community relations and d e ve l o p m e n t with the Texas Humane Heroes, discussed the plight of homeless pets. Texas Humane Heroes often transfers animals from open-door (kill) shelters to help secure adoptive homes for them. Many of these animals have deteriorated dental conditions that require painful extractions and ongoing care in order to save the animal and/or to improve their quality of life. If these pets had even the basics, such as safe chew toys, proper food, and regular visits, their condition would most likely not have deteriorated so drastically.

People deciding to include pets in their lives need to research the needs of the type of pet before taking on such responsibilities.

Recipe for general, routine pet dental care: • One or more veterinarianapproved chew toys • Daily dose of dentally beneficial food and treats • Weekly direct

Facilities such as the Texas Humane Heroes are always in need of donations to help offset the costs of expensive services. Erin said all of the donations to Texas Humane Heroes pay for the costs of animal rescues and services, including emergency dental procedures. Texas Humane Heroes and other similar facilities

do not always receive government funding and must rely on conventional and social media to help spread the word of their selfless plight to rescue our helpless friends.

The Abby Angel Fund was established in memory of Texas Humane Heroes’ “beloved resident dog, Abby, who passed away in 2005.” All funds are used for medical and emergency care. Information on the fund may be accessed online at www.texashumaneheroes. org/donate/abby -angelfund/.

Veterinarian offices, humane societies, and shelters are great sources for literature on pet dental care…

Pet Dental Care Quick Bites Vaccinate to protect against periodontitis

Only use pet-specific dental care products

Ask your vet about a vaccine that helps prevent periodontitis in pets.

This doesn’t replace routine dental care.

Never use people toothpaste for pets it can make them sick (would you want to use theirs?) Pet toothbrushes are smaller and softer than people brushes.

Tartar forms on teeth within 24 to 48 hours Bacteria and food particles builds up on teeth and harden to tartar within 24 to 48 hours. This can lead to gum inflammation and gingivitis.

Regular dental care can reverse gingivitis but not periodontitis Regular teeth cleanings can remove plaque but not tartar, and routine dental care can reverse gingivitis but not periodontitis.

Introduce dental care to your pet one step at a time Take your time introducing dental care to your pet. They need to get used to you putting your hands in their mouth as much as you need to get used to doing it.

Their bad habits might be a sign of dental problems If Fido or Fifi keeps licking their lips, dropping food from their mouths, or will only eat soft foods, they may be trying to tell you something about their dental health. It’s better to find out.

Feline dental problems can be signs of other health issues Inflammation in feline gums can be a symptom of kidney disease and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus.

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By ANN VANDERGRIFF

Sweetheart Treats for Pets

Show some love this Valentine’s Day and give your most loyal and trusted companions – with fur – healthy and safe treats. They are guaranteed to be HOWLING good and make them BEG for more.

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S

poiling your pet with an occasional treat is a common practice among most pet owners. Yet some owners may be surprised to learn that not all commerciallymanufactured treats are safe for pets to consume.

The Federal Drug Administration recently reported that more than 3,600 dogs and 10 cats became sick after eating jerky treats over the past six years and that 580 of those pets died. All of these animals consumed jerky treats linked to manufacturers in China.

The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires that all animal foods, like human goods, be safe to eat. They must be produced under sanitary conditions, contain no harmful substances and be truthfully labeled. It does not require pet food products to have a

pre-market approval by the FDA. This can make it challenging and frustrating for health conscious pet owners when shopping for a safe, reliable, and nutritious brand of pet treats.

Making your own homemade pet treats is a smart way to ensure your pet consumes safe treats made from high-quality ingredients.

The following treat recipes require a handful of basic ingredients and are quick and easy to make.

If your pet has any known allergies or health issues, be sure to share the list of ingredients with your veterinarian to ensure your pet can consume them safely. Unbleached all-purpose flour is safe for dogs; however, whole wheat flour provides more health benefits and is highly recommended.

Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Biscuits INGREDIENTS 1 cup pumpkin puree 2 eggs ½ cup oats 3 cups whole wheat flour 3 tbsp all-natural peanut butter ½ tsp cinnamon, optional

ICING Fido’s Frosting Yogurt Royal Icing *available online at k9cakery.com

1. Mix whole wheat flour oats and cinnamon together.

2. In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs and peanut butter until well combined.

3. Add the pumpkin mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix on low until well combined.

4. Pour mixture onto a floured surface and knead dough into disk.

The dough will be sticky so keep your rolling pin and surface dusted with flour.

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5. Cut treats out with a cookie cutter of your choice.

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6. Transfer to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

7. Let treats cool on a baking sheet for five minutes then move them to a cooling rack.

Decorate with the specialty yogurt royal icing made just for dogs.

Kitty Tuna Treats Ingredients

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Banana Dog Treats Yields: A lot!

6 ounces of un-drained tuna 1 cup cornmeal 1 cup flour ⅓ cup of water

Instructions Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Add all ingredients to a large bowl and blend well.

On a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place your dough and roll it out until it is fairly thin, approximately ¼-inch.

Bake for 20 minutes. Allow to cool completely, then break the sheet up into bite size treats. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

Yields: ~24 biscuits

1 banana, peeled 1 cup oat flour ⅔ cup rolled oats ½ cup dried parsley *optional: substitute half of parsley for dried mint 3 tbsps. all-natural peanut butter 1 egg, beaten

Instructions Preheat oven to 300ºF. Put banana in large bowl and mash using a spoon or potato masher. Add flour, oats, parsley, peanut butter, egg and stir until combined well. Set aside for five minutes.

Roll mixture into 24 balls using about one tablespoon of dough.

Transfer to a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using the back of a spoon or the heel of your hand, press each ball into a 1½ -2 inch coin.

Bake for 40-45 minutes or until firm and deep golden brown on the bottom. Set aside and allow to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them, but thaw treats before serving.

Peanut Butter & Bacon Dog Treats

Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Biscuits

Ingredients

Ingredients

Yields: Varies

1 cup natural creamy peanut butter ¾ cup nonfat milk 1 large egg (or ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce) 2 cups whole wheat flour 1 tbsp baking powder ⅓ cup oats (either whole-rolled or quick oats are fine) 2-3 strips bacon, chopped

Instructions Preheat oven to 325ºF degrees. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.

In a large bowl, gently mix the peanut butter, milk and egg together with a large spoon or spatula. Switch to a whisk to make sure no lumps remain. Add the flour and baking powder. You may need to turn the dough out onto the counter and use your hands to work in the flour. Mix in the oats and chopped bacon. The dough is extremely thick and heavy.

Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out into ¼-inch thickness. Cut into shapes using cookie cutters or a knife. Arrange on the baking sheets. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until very lightly browned on the bottom. Remove from the oven, and flip the treats to bake the other side for 10-12 more minutes. Allow to cool completely before serving to your pup. Store at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to one week. Treats freeze well, up to two months.

1 cup pumpkin puree 2 eggs ½ cup oats 3 cups whole wheat flour 3 tbsp all-natural peanut butter ½ tsp cinnamon, optional

Yields: ~24 biscuits

Icing Fido’s Frosting Yogurt Royal Icing *available online at k9cakery.com

Instructions Preheat oven to 350ºF. Mix whole wheat flour, oats, and cinnamon together. In a separate bowl mix pumpkin puree, eggs and peanut butter until well combined. Add the pumpkin mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix on low until well combined.

Pour mixture onto a floured surface and knead dough into a round disk approximately ¼-inch thick. The dough will be sticky, so keep your rolling pin and surface dusted with flour at all times. Cut treats out using a cookie cutter of your choice.

Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the treats to cool down on the baking sheet for at least five minutes before attempting to transfer them to a cooling rack.

Decorate your treats with Fido’s frosting yogurt royal icing made specifically for dogs.

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ve LoBYTES

Middle-age, single and looking for love

by LUCIE FRALICKS

Older adults are learning that their ages aren’t the only thing that has changed since they dated last. The digital era has redefined the dating game and transformed the way the world communicates and networks.

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We’re only given one life… but in that gift, we’re given a lifetime to love.

Life can be an amazing ride, but what happens when someone slams on the romantic brakes and we find ourselves starting over from scratch at mid-life? How do you find love again in a world where the book of love, courtship and all the rules for dating have changed?

Busy working adults and parents have little time to spend searching for love. So much has changed in this busy world that even Cupid has trouble keeping up. Fortunately, Cupid now has some help: technology.

Click on love

Many older singles or those who are single again are turning to online dating to help them find romance. Internet dating advertisements bombard us on TV, radio and online ads, making us wonder, “Why haven’t I tried it yet?” But with so many choices, how do you choose the option that is right for you? There are recommendations of friends and even websites dedicated to ranking dating websites.

Some sites consistently rank high in surveys and have withstood the test of time. Whether you are looking for a casual companion or a long-term relationship, online dating sites offer busy adults an opportunity to mingle with other singles and increase their chances of making a digital love connection.

Zoosk.com Zoosk started as on online community forum on Facebook and quickly grew into a dating website. Much like the advertising you see on the Internet, Zoosk tracks your patterns of the types of people you choose to interact with and then filters your potential matches to find those people that most closely match your patterns of behavior.

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Match.com Match.com has been around since 1995.

Members create profiles with information about themselves and their preferences for a partner. Members can then “shop” for their date using a variety of criteria to filter the vast number of options down to the top choices. Match.com is the No. 1 site in terms of number of users.

eHarmony.com eHarmony is a favorite site for those people looking for more committed, long-term relationships. Members are asked questions about their values and then matched through a series of mathematical algorithms with potential partners who share their values system. Once the matching process has taken place, members are allowed to communicate with people that have been selected. This helps narrow the focus to a few key people rather than a large volume of potential partners.

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Ourtime.com Ourtime.com is a dating site specifically designed for people over the age of 50. Rather than sifting through profiles of people who may be age-inappropriate or may not be able to relate to you, you get to see people in your age demographic.

Howaboutwe.com Howaboutwe.com takes a much different approach to dating. Rather than creating a personal profile or taking a personality assessment, Howaboutwe.com asks you to detail your ideal date and then matches you with people who would be interested in going on that date.

Some other popular sites include Chemistry.com, Perfectmatch.com and PlentyofFish.com. Do your homework, ask your friends and family for advice and choose one to get started on your new digital adventure.

Take a chance, dive into love!

Now that you’ve decided you’re ready to take the plunge into the sea of digital dating, there are some things to consider. Some sites are free, while others charge a monthly fee that can range from a little to a lot. Decide how committed you are to the process and what you hope to gain before you decide how much you want to spend trying to find Mr. or Ms. Right. Many sites offer free trial periods or coupons and discounts that will allow you to try before you buy. Most people test drive a car before they buy it, so too should you test drive a dating website to be sure it is right for you before you commit to buying it on a longer term basis.

When creating a profile, remember to be yourself but be selective about what you share. Remember that once your information is put online, it stays there. Never include

Some online dating statistics 17 percent of couples married in the last three years (or 1 in 6 people) met each other on an online dating site.

1 out of 5 singles have dated someone they met on a dating website In the last year, more than twice as many marriages occurred between people who met on an online dating site than met in bars, clubs or another social event combined Source: Match.com

information that may compromise your personal safety or your standards. Be thoughtful and forthcoming and share a sense of your personality; keep it light. It is better to leave a little air of mystery so those intrigued by your profile will contact you to learn more.

One of the most important components

for a good online profile is photographs.

Be sure to use a recent (within last three months ideally) photograph of yourself. A photograph is worth a thousand words, so be sure to choose one that best represents you and your personality. Most websites allow you to upload numerous photographs, so be sure to choose a variety. Always include

a good, clear up-close photograph that show you looking at the camera and smiling, as well as a few others in different settings— enjoying an outdoor activity, vacation, or other hobby or interest of yours. There is nothing worse than choosing a profile and corresponding with that individual for a while, only to discover upon meeting, their photograph was at least a decade old and they no longer even resemble it. Always be courteous and avoid disappointing someone by being dishonest.

Practicing patience is another rule of Internet dating. Rome was not built in a day and finding your ideal mate is not likely to happen that fast either. With millions of people using online dating sites, you can take your time and be selective. Do not settle for someone who is only an okay fit-search for the right fit. Avoid limiting yourself by only searching profiles that fit specific criteria. Too often daters have a preconceived notion of what their ideal mate will look like and then only consider people who fit that “type”: dark hair, 6’2-6’3, average build, etc. This may

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actually hinder you from finding your Mr. or Ms. Right. Broaden your search to include all heights, hair and eye color, body types, etc.

It would be a tragedy to miss out on finding the love of your life simply because his or her height was off by a few inches, or they had a different hair color, or even weighed 20 pounds more than what you imagined. The old saying, “You’ll find love where you least expect it,” often rings true.

Safety first. Online dating has become such a widespread phenomenon that there are computer programs and services that will complete or write your profile for you.

Be leery of profiles that sound too perfect or too good to be true. Keep in mind, if someone is dishonest, they will be dishonest whether they met you in a more traditional social setting or online. So while it is good to be cautious, don’t let this fear dissuade you from meeting people online.

Always have the first few meetings in a public place and tell your friends or family who you are meeting and where. It is always better to be overly cautious and safe, than to put yourself in a potentially dangerous situation. Never ignore your instincts. If something does not feel, look or sound right, get up and leave immediately. Often we are quick to dismiss an uneasy feeling if we cannot find an obvious or logical explanation for it. According to security experts, this is where victims get into trouble. Instead of being concerned for their own safety, they were more concerned about appearing rude or offending their date. Remember, always use good common sense and follow your instincts when you are meeting new people— and this goes for all dating scenarios and settings.

There are niche dating sites that cater to almost anything you could want. Here are some specialty sites that might be right for you!

Equestriansingles.com – a dating site catering to horse lovers Cupidtino.com – for lovers of Mac and Apple products Gk2Gk.com – find your fellow geek Republicanpeoplemeet.com/Democratpeoplemeet.com – ensure political compatibility Mustlovepets.com – find a fellow animal lover Farmersonly.com – farmers, ranchers and people who love the rural life Trekpassions.com – Sci-fi lovers (think Star Trek) Veggiedate.org – various types of vegetarians and vegans Christianmingle.com/Jdate.com – sites catering to specific religious preferences

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FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

Coping with the Death of a Pet Finding a way to memorialize your pet can be therapeutic for grief management

By TERESA K. HERNANDEZ

“Such short little lives our pets have to spend with us, and they spend most of it waiting for us to come home each day. It is amazing how much love and laughter they bring into our lives and even how much closer we become with each other because of them.”—John Grogan TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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The monument stone made by Aaron Crawford, honoring the lives of many beloved pets who were entrusted to Cherish Memories for a communal burial.

The death of a beloved pet can bring on many of the same intense, profound feelings of pain and grief that are associated with the loss of a human family member. It is important to have compassion and to be supportive of someone who is mourning the loss of a pet. The loss of a pet is a serious event and grieving is a natural process. Most pets are regarded by their owners as cherished family members and a pet loss can be a traumatic experience for the entire family.

According to the ASPCA, pet owners may experience feelings of anger, sadness, even confusion after their loss; all of which

event, or even themselves for their decisions regarding the pet’s end-of-life medical treatment or decision to euthanize.

Pet memorials

the same procedures as funeral homes for humans, we opened Cherished Memories, a pet-cremation service to help families commemorate their pets,” said David. A member of the Pet Loss Professionals Alliance (PLPA), which falls under the umbrella of the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association. Cherished Memories works with veterinarians throughout Central Texas and is entrusted with the care of the deceased pets at a family’s request.

“Each pet is issued a metal identification tag which is placed on the animal before it ever leaves the clinic or the family. We have proper measures in place to ensure that each pet is identified and documented correctly. The metal identification tag, the identification band and the paperwork must all match and be cross-checked at each stage of the process. The metal identification tag also stays with the pet throughout the entire process, including the cremation. The ashes along with the tag are then packaged and returned to the families,” said Royce.

Cherished Memories offers multiple packages and pricing options. They offer three choices of urns, all of which are made in Texas. Two are made of cedar and one is made of ceramic. The cedar urns come with either a lock-and-key feature (made in Euless), or a hook clasp (made locally by a Veteran).

The ceramic urn was custom-designed by the Crawfords and it is made exclusively for Cherished Memories by a woman in Bertram. Commemorative packages also include candles and bookmarks, all of which are handmade by the Crawfords.

The Crawford’s late son Aaron created and designed a monument on their property that honors the lives of beloved pets entrusted

“A pet is never truly forgotten until it is no longer remembered.”- -Lacie Petitto A therapeutic way to cope with the grief is to create a memorial for your pet.

When you talk about your pet with family and friends and share happy memories you shared with your pet, it can be comforting and an important step in grief management.

Gather the family for a memorial service when you bury your pet or scatter his or her ashes in a favorite “People leave imprints on our lives, shaping who we become in much the same way that a symbol is place. Enjoy sharing your favorite memories together, recite a poem pressed into the page of a book to tell you who it or say a prayer together at the comes from pets, however, leave paw prints on our service. Other nice ways to souls, which are as unique as fingerprints in every honor the memory of your pet —Ashly Lorenzana way.” is to plant a tree or rose bush, have a memory stone engraved for your pet for the backyard or garden. are completely normal forms of grief. In some instances of severe distress, pet owners Cherished Memories may even experience hallucination-type After spending more than 30 years in the experiences in which they believe they hear family funeral home business David and their pet walking around the house or see Royce Crawford, owners of the Killeen it out of the corner of their eye. Feelings of Monument Company, turned their Cherished Memories owners, David and Royce anger or guilt are often directed toward the attention toward helping families honor the Crawford with son Aaron, (May 20, 1981-July veterinarian, or those involved in the death memory of their beloved pets. “Following 12, 2013).

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FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

Cherished Memories’s commemorative pet keepsakes and memorial urns. LEFT: black ceramic urn; RIGHT: keepsake box with cedar urn. to Cherished Memories. It reads: “On this property are buried the remains of beloved pets entrusted to Cherished Memories for communal disposition. Over their lifetimes, these pets were loved and cared for by many devoted families.”

“We wanted to feature an option for families who although they loved their pets dearly, may not be financially in a position to invest in an urn. This package does not diminish the love they had for their pet, nor does it cheapen the memorial in any way,” says Royce. Because the monument

site sets on private residential properly, the Crawfords do not offer a public pet cemetery or any monument visitations.

“The monument was the inspiration of our son Aaron, as was Cherished Memories.

He was a devout animal and nature lover and outdoorsman his entire life and it was important to him that we offer these services to families. In a sense, we are carrying out Aaron’s legacy by honoring the lives of pets,” says Royce.

For more information on a pet memorial or cremation services by Cherished Memories, please contact your veterinarian or call 254.289.0966 or 254.317.7199

Grieving the loss of pet? You are not alone.

Find support by calling one of these organizations which specialize in pet-loss.

ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline 877.GRIEF.10

Additional resources:

Designated to assist pet owners with grief management, including comfort, support and decisions on euthanizing; advice on dealing with children; elderly or disabled individuals who are facing the death of a companion animal; how to help surviving pets cope with the loss; and establishing a relationship with a new pet

Coping with the Loss of a Pet: A Gentle Guide for All Who Love a Pet, Christina M. Lemieux, Ph.D.; Wallace R. Clark & Co.; 1988.

SPCA of Texas Pet Grief Counseling Program 214.461.5131

Dog Gone, Howard Bronson; Bestsell Publications, 6 Samba Circle, Sandwich, MA 02563; 1994.

Services include telephone counseling, one-onone counseling and group counseling. All calls are returned within 24 hours.

PetFriends 800.404.PETS (7387)

photographs by JULIE NABOURS

Pet Loss: A Thoughtful Guide for Adults and Children, Herbert A. Nieburg, Ph.D. & Arlene Fischer; Harper Perennial; 1996.

Legacies of Love: A Gentle Guide to Healing from the Loss of Your Animal Loved One audiobook, Teresa Wagner, Upper Access Books.

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FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

Sic ‘em with gifts

Pamper the One You Love

Zooty’s is honored to carry the official Baylor University Plaid. Approved by First Lady Alice Starr and designed

by Baylor Students, these Dapper Bear scarves will be a wardrobe staple.

ONE MINUTE MANICURE Gently exfoliates, reconditions, and nourishes skin in one easy step

Zooty’s 1401 S. 31st St., Suite I, Temple 254.770.0904

Silver Spoon Jewelry Handcrafted necklaces, rings and other shiney things!

Made in the USA

My Giving Tree Gift Shop & Art Gallery

121 N. East St., Suite B, Belton 254.939.TREE www.mygivingtree.net

Best Wishes Gifts 1401 S. 31st St., Temple 254.773.GIFT

“Tote” al Bling!

This purse will add sparkle to any woman’s life! For more excitement…add the cap & sunglasses and carry everything (and more!) in the oversized floral tote.

Marvina’s Optical Boutique 1408 S. 31st St., Ste B Temple 254.771.2522

Such a cutie pie

X’s and O’s

Your new best friend is waiting for you! Hedgehogs make a great pet. We also have fish, reptiles, birds and hamsters and other friends. Make us your next fun destination.

You’ll be party perfect for Valentine’s Day with paper goods and accessories for your table, invitations and more!

The Fish Bowl Pet Express

1401 S. 31st St., Temple 254.773.8331

17 N. 2nd Street, Temple 254.773.9771

Paperdoodles

It’s all for you, Ma Chérie Wrap your baby in the finest of luxuries in town!

Lucky Bêbé

Fashionista by Brighton Paris was the inspiration but you can enjoy the look and feel of your favorite destination even when you’re not traveling.

Sophisticated yet sassy, you’ll feel like a glamorous Parisian!

The Shoe Box

7410 W Adams, Suite 170, Temple 254.773.5426 www.luckybebetx.com

3111 S. 31st St., Ste 3195 Temple Mall 254.773.4560

Make It Yourself

Lady Primrose

Popular jewelry making classes include beading, wire wrapping, metalsmithing and more!

Gift Certificates available Come out and delight in our smorgasbord of beads!

Bead Bistro, Gourmet Beadery

2501 S. WS Young Dr. Ste 311, Killeen 254.432.5307

Always with you Smallprint is the original fingerprint jewelry company capturing a precious moment in time with a unique item of jewelry hand-crafted in fine silver. Choose from a wide range of pendants, charms, cufflinks and keyrings and much, much, more!

Smallprint Texas 103 Rustler Circle, Harker Heights 254.702.9426 smallprint.com

Luscious Lovelies Enhance your natural beauty with longer, thicker eyelashes by the only certified Xtreme Lashes stylist from Austin to Fort Worth!

Lashes by Jessica Taylor 5297 S. 31st, Ste 103C, Temple 254.231.8228 lashesbyjessicataylor.com

Lady Primrose takes the utmost care in creating the finest products with enduring qualities in bath, body and home fragrance. Our beautiful packaging is filled with exceptional product, which brings beauty to you and your home.

Callie’s Boutique 1401 S. 31st St., Temple Pecan Plaza 254.770.0511

Show yourself how much you love YOU Belton’s newest Salon & Spa, your one stop pampering experience!!!

Available for facials, photography, massages, hair care and nails.

VALENTINES SPECIAL $100 gift certificate for $80 (can be purchased online)

The Salon & Spa at Greenbriar 101 Greenbriar Street, Belton 254.939.3700 salonspagreenbriar.com

Unique Happens Here Better than chocolate!

Diamond jewelry ranging from $699 to $8,995

Salado Creek Jewelers

by KiKi Creations 106 North Main St., Salado 254.855.5538 jewelrysaladotx.com

Elegance with Style Amish handcrafted heirlooms made with family values and time honored traditions.

Falls Furniture 2943 US Hwy 77, Lott 254.584.4105

Gifts to Share

Stylin’ for Style

Gifts of love, faith and friendship.

Unique décor to warm your home.

With a stylish boutique, fantastic service with southern charm, My Stylist Hair Salon & More is the new beauty salon in the Harker Heights Area.

Pizazz Gifts and Décor

My Stylist Hair Salon & More

214 East Central Ave, Belton Inside Perry Office Plus facebook.com/PerryPizazz

331 Indian Trail, Ste 104 Harker Heights 254.781.2748

Relax with your honey while getting pampered!

Double the pleasure as you and a guest enjoy a relaxing spa experience with our Two’s Company Package, indulge in the solitary escape of our Pink Champagne Package, or reconnect and recharge with the classic head-to-toe experience of our Spa Classics Package - all specially priced for Valentine’s Day! Schedule a day for yourself, or show someone you really love them with a gift card!

Needless Necessities Zooty’s is now offering Needless Necessities T-shirts and dresses! Choose yours at Zooty’s!

Zooty’s

1401 S. 31st St., Suite I, Temple 254.770.0904

The Woodhouse Day Spa

219 S. East St., Suite A Belton, Texas 76513 P 254-933-2275 | F 254-933-8854 hospitality@nolancreek.woodhousespas.com NolanCreek.WoodhouseSpas.com

Welcome Spring!

Three bright new colors from Vera Bradley. Backpacks, wallets, wristlets, tech accessories, totes, travel, lunch and more. Available in Julep Tulip (shown), Blue Bayou and Citron.

The Shoe Box 3111 S. 31st St., Ste 3195 Temple Mall 254.773.4560

TEXhealth

HEART RHYTHM

February is dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and increasing knowledge about heart health.

By LARRY PRICE, D.O., METROPLEX HEALTH SYSTEM

C

ardiovascular disease, which includes heart disease and stroke, is the country’s leading cause of death. In the United States alone, one in three, or 80 million people, suffer from some form of heart disease. American Heart Month provides an important reminder that it is never too early to take action to improve our heart health.

Millions of Americans experience heart rhythm problems that cause bothersome and sometimes serious symptoms.

The heart has both an “electrical system” as well as a “plumbing system.”

Abnormal heart rhythms might be slow or fast, regular or irregular. The heart’s electrical system is responsible for generating signals that trigger the heart muscle to contract in performing its function as a blood pump. This process begins in the upper chambers of the heart (atria) that pump blood to the lower chambers (ventricles) which in turn pump 50

FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

blood to the lungs and the rest of the body.

This coordinated action occurs because the heart is “wired” to send electrical signals to the chambers of the heart to tell them when to contract.

In a normal heart, the “pacemaker” of the heart in the upper chamber sends a signal to begin the process of generating a “heart beat” about once per second. But sometimes there are problems with these signals that result in certain heart rhythm problems.

ARRHYTHMIAS Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) in the upper chamber include atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, sinus node dysfunction (sinus bradycardia) and supraventricular tachycardia.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained arrhythmia. About 2.7 million people in the U.S. have atrial fibrillation, which is an irregular rapid rhythm that originates in the upper chambers (atria).

The upper chambers may contract up to four times faster than normal and the lower chambers 2-3 times faster than normal. It is not life-threatening, but causes symptoms such as decreased exercise tolerance, fatigue, shortness of breath or fluid retention-also the most common cause for stroke which is due to a blood clot forming in the irregularly beating atria, and the clot traveling to

TEXhealth a portion of the brain. Blood thinners (anticoagulants) are often prescribed to prevent clot formation until the atrial fibrillation is brought under control.

Atrial flutter is a closely related rhythm disorder, but more organized than atrial fibrillation and with similar symptoms and management.

Supraventricular tachycardia is also a rapid heart rhythm, but with more organized electrical activity than atrial fibrillation and near zero risk for stroke. This tends to occur in younger individuals, but it can be just as distressing regarding symptoms. Symptoms related to slow heart rhythm (bradycardia) might include fainting, decreased exercise tolerance, weakness or fatigue.

Abnormal fast rhythms in the lower chambers include ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF). These life-threatening arrhythmias usually occur in people with a structurally abnormal heart muscle (weakened or scarred heart muscle, previous heart attacks, etc), but can occur in normal hearts that may have a genetic abnormality in processing electrical signals. The ventricular arrhythmias warrant aggressive treatment and follow-up.

“What is your EF?” This was a slogan originating many years ago to help in public awareness of the risk associated with development of ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) that often leads to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The ejection fraction (EF) is a term that is used to define the strength of the heart muscle.

With every heart beat, the main pumping chamber of the heart (left ventricle) squeezes or ejects about twothirds of its blood volume forward.

The weaker the heart muscle, the lower the number.

Normal range is around 50-75 percent.

Between 36-49 percent is below normal and patients sometimes will begin to develop some “heart failure” symptoms (decreased exercise tolerance, fluid retention, shortness of breath). An EF below 35 percent indicates

a weak, poorly pumping heart muscle that is at increased risk for developing sudden cardiac arrest. A risk assessment is available online at: www.scarisk.org.

DIAGNOSIS The diagnostic work-up of heart rhythm disorders varies depending upon the type of

“

About 2.7 million people in the U.S. have … an irregular rapid rhythm that originates in the upper chambers of the heart.

”

problem, but it basically needs to be observed or “caught during the act” for an accurate diagnosis. This might be readily evident with an office EKG (electrocardiogram) for sustained or persistent rhythm disorders. Intermittent arrhythmias might be documented with an

outpatient event recorder or Holter monitor, which is like a continuous EKG worn externally.

Sometimes longer monitoring is necessary for recurrent but infrequent symptoms and an implantable loop recorder (ILR) is inserted under the skin so that the patient does not have to wear an external monitor for weeks or months. An ILR is currently about the size of the jump drive on your computer and is implanted through an incision in a hospital setting, but newer ones are being developed now that can be “injected” under the skin as an office procedure.

Some arrhythmias are documented and need further definition or have evaded detection and need to be “provoked” to establish the diagnosis. This is done with an electrical study of the heart called an electrophysiology study (EP study). This is like doing an EKG from inside the heart and can give much greater detailed information about the heart’s electrical system.

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TEXhealth

Pacemaker

TREATMENT OPTIONS If the arrhythmia is confirmed with the EP study, therapy can be directed based upon the results. Slow rhythms are usually treated with pacemakers. Supraventricular tachycardia and atrial flutter are treated with radiofrequency catheter ablation.

And life-threatening arrhythmias are treated with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) with or without ablation.

Pacemakers are utilized to treat slow rhythms (bradycardia). Modern pacemaker generators are about the size of a watch face and are inserted under the skin of the upper chest wall and attached to the heart by electrode wires that go under the collar bone to a vein that leads to the inner chambers of the heart. These are implanted in a hospital setting and usually on an outpatient basis with routine follow-up in the clinic.

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are similar to pacemakers, but larger in size (about half the size of a cell phone) and have pacemaker capability, but the more

“

important function is the ability to recognize and treat life-threatening rhythm problems (VT/VF) with a shock delivered to the fibrillating ventricle (defibrillation).

Resynchronization therapy is a term that is applied to a pacing method that can apply to patients with pacemakers or ICDs.

Slow rhythms are usually treated with pacemakers.

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�

Our heart normally conducts electricity to the right and left ventricles equally, but sometimes the left sided electrical system fails or a patient is utilizing a pacemaker in the right ventricle nearly 100 percent of the time. The addition of an electrical lead wire that activates the left ventricle in addition to the usual right atrial and right ventricular chambers allows a more normal activation sequence that results in more effective cardiac contraction.

Ablation is a term to describe a therapy that can be utilized to treat rapid rhythm problems at the time of the diagnostic EP

TEXhealth study. One of the electrode catheters is directed to the part of the heart’s electrical system that is generating the abnormal rhythm and, once pinpointed, radiofrequency energy is delivered through the catheter, which causes the tip to heat up. This delivers heat to the problem area and shrinks the offending area and causes it to lose its ability to conduct electricity. This can effectively “roadblock” the area that is causing the abnormal fast rhythm.

Overall, there are about a dozen different heart rhythm problems. Some are benign and only warrant observation, some are treated with medications or ablation and some are managed with implantable devices such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter defibrillators. Our community is blessed with having a cardiac electrophysiology lab and cardiac electrophysiologists in each of our hospitals for management and follow-up for our patients with heart rhythm disorders.

TRUNK SHOW FEBRUARY 10th - 15th

Monday-Friday 10am-5pm

Saturday

10am-2pm

SYMPTOMS OF ARRHYTHMIAS ♥

IRREGULAR HEART BEATS

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

FAST/SLOW HEART RHYTHM DECREASED EXERCISE TOLERANCE FATIGUE

Tuscan Square - 5293 S. 31st, Ste 131, Temple 254.295.0737

SHORTNESS OF BREATH FLUID RETENTION FAINTING WEAKNESS

Dr. Price received his medical degree from the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth, followed by postgraduate training at Osteopathic Medical Center of Texas, Texas A&M University Health Science Center/Scott & White and Mayo Graduate School of Medicine. At Scott & White, he was named chief resident in internal medicine. Dr. Price joined Scott & White’s senior staff in 1987, and served as chief of the section of cardiac pacing and electrophysiology, director of the Cardiac Electrophysiology Lab, and director of the Pacemaker Clinic for 18 years. He is currently a staff cardiac electrophysiologist at Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia in Austin and a provider for Metroplex Hospital.

Dr. Price is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Critical Care Medicine, and Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology.

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Home Furnishings | Unique Gifts | Antiques Jewelry Boutique | Garden Furnishings 254-642-0153 | verandabloom.com M-F 10-5:30 Sat 10-4 12 E. Mesquite (190/36) Rogers 54

FEBRUARY 2014 TEX APPEAL

TEXfit

TOUGH ENOUGH FOR BOOT CAMP?

By JESSIE OESTREICH, CPT, region director for Camp Gladiator

W

ith the continued success of the NBC series, The Biggest Loser, boot camps and circuit-training workouts are popping up everywhere, even in Central Texas. A variety of popular workout classes are available: yoga, weight lifting, spinning, group running and boot camps. Almost every week, it seems like a new fad emerges in fitness that promises big results.

When you’re not sure which one will help you achieve the results you want, take a cue from the U.S. military and choose a good old-fashioned boot camp. For starters, it is done in intervals between running and weight training. It is an intense workout that will leave you breathless and with a wellsculptured body featuring toned abs and chiseled legs.

Boot camps challenge every muscle in your body. With little rest in between each set, you’re bound to feel the burn and intensity. When moving constantly for an hour, your body has no time to rest. You are burning hundreds of calories even after you stop. It is a great workout to challenge your body and mind – and one that leaves no prisoners.

It is for the strong, the weak, the young, the old, the fit and the not-so-fit. There is no discrimination as long as you have the will power to finish what you start. The benefits of boot camp are astonishing. Violet Vianes, winner of Tex Appeal’s “Fit in Four” fitness challenge, is living proof that boot camps are effective and time-efficient. Violet lost more than 15 percent body fat in less than four months by working out at Camp Gladiator and incorporating healthy eating habits into her lifestyle.

TORCH CALORIES Boot camp classes are a great way to torch calories. Many boot camps are outside, which TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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TEXfit gives you an extra element of resistance: the weather. If it’s super warm, you burn more calories as your body works to keep you cool.

If it’s super cold, your body burns more calories trying to stay warm. At first it can be challenging, but once the sweat starts to pour down your face, you realize the combination of the heat, cold or wind, along with constant repetitions, is doing your body a favor.

There are also some great benefits to exercising in the great outdoors that are not fitness-related. Science shows that getting vitamin D from sunlight increases overall health. Being outside and taking in some form of physical activity is shown to reduce stress levels, increase healthy endorphins and decrease the bad stress hormone cortisol.

Camp Gladiator campers love the program because it’s outside. They don’t want to be inside, even in the dead of winter or summer. They feel and see the benefits of being outdoors and taking in fresh air.

Campers move constantly at a rapid pace, which burns a lot of calories. You can usually expect to burn between 500 to 1,000 calories during one hour-long session.

Campers love to compare how many calories they burned in a workout. Some campers have even burned 1,200 calories in a single one-hour session. High intensity intervals of strength training, mixed with bursts of cardio, can give you a total body workout while torching fat.

CARDIO AND WEIGHTS Most classes involve using indoor equipment, hand weights or require some kind of rhythm. In an hour-long boot camp, you’re getting your cardio as you are toning muscles with strength training. This is a plus for those who dread doing cardio. Another perk to the cardio in boot camp is that even though it is done for a shorter duration, the intensity level is higher and more effective.

Combining cardio and strength training is essential for weight loss because you need the fat-burning cardio paired with the musclebuilding strength training to get results.

BUILD CONFIDENCE Once you finish your first class, drenched in 56

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sweat, heart pounding and muscles fatigued, you will get a burst of energy and confidence knowing you endured and completed a session. Challenging workouts build confidence and self-esteem. It feels great to know you did something good for your body and mind.

BANISH “I CAN’T” FROM YOUR VOCABULARY Boot camp classes will push you beyond your mental or physical block. There is no slacking,

regardless of your fitness level. You are forced to push through all barriers with the help of your instructor. If you are concerned about an injury or not being able to do an exercise, make sure to find a program that encourages a “go at your own pace” format.

It is beneficial to have someone there encouraging you. Some of us need that extra push. The instructors are there to help you find your inner warrior, which exists in everyone.

Boot camp teaches you discipline and

TEXfit

turns a class into a team. Being a team player, you don’t want to slow everyone down. It forces you to unite with your fellow boot campers and conquer the 60 minutes of pure physical extraction.

NEVER A DULL MOMENT Let’s face it, it’s easy to get bored with a daily fitness routine, especially when you clock in 45 minutes on the treadmill as you stare at the wall ahead of you, praying for each minute to go by fast. A boot camp workout

Serving Temple-Belton-Salado

is never boring, never predictable.

Each class is different. You are constantly moving between exercises, which leaves little time for thinking about how much time you have remaining or what you forgot at the grocery store. Challenging yes, boring no.

The beauty of having a trainer is that you never have to think about what to do next.

Time flies by and before you even realize it, you’re done and very, very sweaty.

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TEXfit

BOOT CAMP MUST HAVES

Here are the basic questions to ask before enrolling in a boot camp

Location: Is it convenient?

There are a few local options for boot camps, but you need to find one that has a location that is 5-10 minutes from your house or place of work. Convenience is the key when making a decision to stop and workout or just go home and get on the couch. Find a boot camp program that has multiple locations around your community. Camp Gladiator allows you to attend unlimited workouts all over the country, wherever you are, you can find a convenient place to work out.

Trainers: Does the program have top quality, educated trainers?

This is important for your safety. The trainer needs to have modifications and other options ready. You also want to make sure you like the trainer. If the trainer isn’t fun and doesn’t make the workout enjoyable, you won’t go back.

Community: Is there a support group with the program?

You want to stick with your boot camp 58

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program and the best way to do that is with accountability. There are boot camps that will include you in other activities such as nutrition challenges, attendance challenges, city sports leagues, etc. Find a group that will keep you engaged and accountable.

Results: Will the program help you get results?

If the program does not have a good track record for success, you probably will not either. There is a reason why they don’t have success stories, whether it be the trainers, the convenience or the price. Choose a program that will deliver results and has a track record for success.

Price: Is it affordable?

There are boot camp programs that are very expensive. This can limit your access to classes. Choose a program that will fit your budget and allow you unlimited workouts.

CENTRAL TEXAS BOOT CAMPS Camp Gladiator campgladiator.com/512.680.6294 The program that won the Tex Appeal “Fit in Four” fitness challenge. This “60 minutes of AMAZING” offers hundreds of locations nationwide and unlimited sessions. There are locations throughout Central Texas.

Programs are available for as low as $65 per month.

Titan Total Training titantotaltraining.com/254.742.2020 This local gym offers boot camps and group fitness classes in an indoor facility located on 57th Street in Temple. Group and individual rates are available.

The Field House thefieldhousegym.com/254.228.5403 This gym offers a unique 24-hour experience along with classes. It is located at 4305 S. 31st St. in Temple. Single and family rates are available.

TEXadventures

AUSTIN

Live Music Capital of the World courtesy of THE AUSTIN CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU contributors JOHN MORTHLAND, VERONICA CASTELO

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ustin is a city with no shortage of history or legend. As you go exploring, take note that history isn’t just found

in the architecture, monuments and museums. It’s in Texas’ last true dance hall, the Broken Spoke. In the gas-station-turned-diner, Threadgill’s, where Janis Joplin once sang. And in Barton Springs, a natural pool in the center of town, first discovered in the 17th century.

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TEXadventures Austin began with a settlement named Waterloo. Immigrants from Germany, Sweden and Mexico were the area’s original inhabitants. Periods of growth followed its renaming and it became the state capital in 1839. The 1850s saw the first building boom with the construction of the first Capitol building in 1853. A second building boom occurred in the 1870s with the arrival of the railroad. In 1883, Austin became a college town with the founding of the University of Texas at Austin. Then the magnificent Driskill Hotel opened its doors to a now-bustling city in 1886. After a fire destroyed the original building, the current capitol was completed in 1888, standing taller than our U.S. Capitol. With its construction, the skyline we know today began to take shape.

Austin is proud of its past, rebellious spirit, and the people who have called Austin home. From authors to activists, artists to athletes, musicians to politicians, they were all drawn to this unusual oasis. That legacy continues, as Austin’s population has historically doubled every 20 years. Now, it’s your turn to see why. Get out there and be a part of Texas history. Austin offers free, guided historic walking tours to get you started.

AUSTIN OUTDOORS There’s a reason Austin is often ranked one of the fittest cities in the country. From cycling to stand-up paddle boarding, waterbiking to leisurely canoe-paddling, Austin offers an abundance of outdoor activities.

Lady Bird Lake offers 10 miles of trails bordering downtown Austin along with kayak, canoing and paddle boarding.

The Driskill was built in 1886 as the showplace of a cattle baron. Located on Sixth Street, the historic hotel is convenient to all the city has to offer.

With 300 days of sunshine and an average temperature of 68 degrees, being active in Austin comes naturally.

A trip to Austin wouldn’t be complete without walking or running along Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail. Located in the heart of the city, this 10-mile off-road trail is Austin’s crown jewel. A place where city officials and luminaries jog alongside locals. It’s hard not to fall in love with the lush scenery and gorgeous skyline views.

While at the lake, you can kayak, canoe

or try your luck at stand-up paddle boarding. Stand up paddle boarding is the fastest growing water sport in the world and has become a must-do for active Austinites. The latest twist? Try stand-up paddle-board yoga from SUP ATX. For something a little more leisurely, kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals are available at various spots along the trail.

Looking to cool off? Don’t miss Austin’s beloved Barton Springs Pool - a natural spring-fed watering hole that’s three acres in size and a constant 68 degrees. If you prefer marked lanes, head to Deep Eddy.

It’s the oldest swimming pool in Texas with a shallow area perfect for the kids. During summer months, check out Splash Party Movie Nights, where family-friendly movies like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Disney’s Tangled are screened.

A ride on the Zilker Zephyr is another fun activity for the kids. This miniature train takes you and your family on a tour of Barton Creek and Lady Bird Lake. Make sure to wave at all the locals you see along your trip.

If you want a true tour of the city, consider hopping on a Segway. SegCity Segway Tours offers guided trips from TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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TEXadventures or West Austin Studio Tours or just taking it in as part of a festival or street fair, you’ll surely note that the art scene is comprehensive. There are galleries, like the Contemporary at the Jones Center, which feature new and established artists alike. Museums dedicated to diversity, such as the MexicArte Museum and the Carver Museum, which collect, preserve and exhibit our cultural treasures. Ballet Austin at the Long Center, which so elegantly showcases our dancers and choreographers.

Texas history is honored at the The Bullock Museum. And celebrate eccentricity with the Cathedral of Junk, the Austin Art Car Parade and many more unusual displays around town.

Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring-fed watering hole that’s three acres in size and a constant 68 degrees.

Sixth Street to the state capitol with several stops along the way. You’ll learn interesting facts about Austin, including the story behind the hundreds of bats that fly out of the Congress Avenue Bridge each nightanother outdoor family friendly activity unique to Austin and worth exploring.

Best of all, it’s free!

LIVE MUSIC SCENE First-time visitors might be surprised to find themselves being entertained with live music as they walk through the terminal at Austin’s airport after deplaning. But they shouldn’t be. Live music, and music in many other forms, is everywhere in Austin.

Musicians play in everything from grocery stores (Central Market, Whole Foods) to city council meetings. They play outdoors at the Blues on the Green series and at festivals: Austin City Limits and South

by Southwest you’ve likely heard of, but there’s also Pachanga Latino Musical Festival, Urban Music Festival, Fun, Fun, Fun Fest, Chaos in Tejas and many more worth checking out. Mostly, you’ll find Austin musicians at clubs, coffeehouses, bars, taquerias, auditoriums and concert halls with more than 250 live music venues, it can be intimidating knowing where to start.

This is why Austin is internationally recognized as a quintessential music experience.

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AUSTIN ARTS Austin is known for its creativity. With good reason. Not only is it home to some world-class museums like the Blanton, with the nation’s largest university-owned collection on exhibit, it’s also home to plenty of artists themselves. You can explore the work of designers, painters, sculptors, writers, photographers, filmmakers, dancers and musicians, at any time of year, any day of the week, in a variety of venues.

Whether you’re surrounded by art at East

Art isn’t just a tourist attraction. It is a part of Austin’s soul and creative spirit. So, tour a gallery. Take in a local film. Marvel at some yard art that you just happened to pass. However you choose to do it, just make sure to experience as much art as you can during your stay.

RACING IN AUSTIN Revving up for a full roster of fall racing, Austin’s new Circuit of the Americas™ (COTA) is turning heads as the first purpose-built Grand Prix facility in the U.S. Race fans from far and near will head to the state-of-the-art 3.4-mile circuit track for some of the most prestigious racing

SXSW is the world’s leading music industry event, offering attendees the opportunity to explore the future of the music industry.

TEXadventures Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, X Games and MotoGP.

events in the world, including

Ballet Austin has offered a “classically innovative” vision of dance for 57 years.

COTA boasts a capacity for 120,000 fans and is situated on a 1,000-acre site in southeast Austin, approximately two miles from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, with scenic views of downtown. The facility is designed for any and all classes of racingfrom motor power, to human power.

TAKE A WALKING TOUR Tickets are available for the Tower Tour, a great opportunity to entertain family, friends or clients with a 30-minute tour of the Grand Plaza, Austin360 Amphitheater and the Tower. Knowledgeable staff members serve as hosts for the Tour. Tour guests walk into the Grand Plaza, through the Austin360 Amphitheater to the tower which stands 251 feet above the track. Tower tours run Wednesday-Sunday (weather permitting), 10a.m.-4p.m.

AUSTIN SPORTS TEAMS AUSTIN ACES Former world No.1 Andy Roddick leads the Aces in the 2014 season, playing both home and away matches. Tickets: 512.508.3069 or austinacestennis.com AUSTIN TOROS 2012 NBA D-League Champions, the Austin Toros play home games from NovemCircuit of the Americas is the first purpose-built Grand Prix facility in the U.S.

ber – April in nearby Cedar Park. Tickets: 512.236.8333 or nba.com/dleague/austin ROUND ROCK EXPRESS The Round Rock Express is the AAA minor league affiliate of the Texas Rangers.

The team plays a 140-game schedule from April through September in Round Rock, north of Austin. Tickets: 512.255.2255 or roundrockexpress.com TEXAS ROLLERGIRLS Austin Texas Rollergirls is a non-profit

UPCOMING COTA EVENTS: MotoGP April 11-13, 2014 MotoGP is the premier motorcycle racing World Championship; an eighteen-race series visiting 13 countries, four continents and with global television coverage. Ten nationalities of the world’s most skilled riders line a grid armed with cutting-edge motorcycle technology return to take on first purpose built Grand Prix facility in the US.circuitoftheamericas.com/motogp X Games Austin June 5-8, 2014 Austin and COTA have been selected to host one of six stops on the Global X Games circuit for the next four years.

XGamesAustin.com Formula 1 United States Grand Prix October 31-November 2, 2014 COTA host the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix race. From the shores of Lady Bird Lake to the steps of the Capitol, the three days are packed with national, regional and local music acts, street performers, F1TM simulators and showcars and lots of family fun throughout Austin. circuitoftheamericas.com TEXAPPEALMAG.COM

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TEXadventures public charity amateur sports organization dedicated to playing and promoting the sport of Women’s Flat Track Derby. Tickets: texasrollergirls.org TEXAS STARS The Texas Stars Hockey Club is the AHL affiliate to the NHL Dallas Stars. They will play in the brand new, state of the art Cedar Park Center. The puck drops from October through April. Tickets: 512.GOSTARS or texasstarshockey.com UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS LONGHORNS Join passionate Longhorn fans to watch UT athletes compete in baseball, basketball, football, soccer, track and field, volleyball, swimming and other sports.Tickets: texassports.com The Austin360 Amphitheater is Austin’s new destination to see the brightest stars in a worldclass, open-air amphitheater.

AUSTIN EVENTS FEBRUARY 1-3 The American Soldier– A Photographic Tribute Visit the final three days of this extraordinary exhibit, featuring 116 photographs from the Civil War to the War in Iraq. The American Soldier is a dramatic exhibition of photographs that captures the essence of American soldiering over more than 150 years, ever since the birth of photography when the camera became a notebook to history, starting with the Civil War. As photography improved so did the record of the American soldier. The 116 enlarged photographs in this exhibition cover America at war, including the Civil War, Spanish American War, Boxer Rebellion, World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Gulf War, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The exhibition captures the danger and the frustration, the humor and the beauty, the camaraderie, the death and the victory that the American soldier encountered in his odyssey through history. Times: During library hours. For more information visit: lbjlibrary.org. LBJ Presidential Library, 2313 Red River St., Austin.

FEBRUARY 14-15 2014 Health and Fitness Marketplace This event will feature more than 80 vendors selling an assortment of runners’ goodies.

Race packets for the Austin Marathon & Half Marathon must be picked up at the marketplace during market hours: Feb. 14, 2-7 64

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p.m.; Feb. 15, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd., Austin.

FEBRUARY 16 Austin Marathon & Half Marathon The Austin Marathon and Half Marathon, presented by Freescale, is a scenic course with rolling hills. Get a great tour of the city, be entertained by bands along the way and receive a finisher’s medal and finisher’s shirt as soon as you cross the finish line. Not quite ready for a half marathon or marathon?

There’s also the Paramount Break-A-Leg 5K on the same day. For more information on time, registration, please visit their website at: youraustinmarathon.com.Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd., Austin.

FEBRUARY 20 2014 Austin RV Expo The 2014 Austin RV Expo will feature more than 200 recreational vehicles of all sizes and price ranges from the top RV dealers across Central Texas. Guests are invited to the Austin Convention Center to get a first look at 2014-model motor homes, pop-ups, travel trailers, truck campers, fifth wheels and green RVing R-Pods. The event offers a chance to explore the recreational vehicles firsthand and determine which one is right

for your family needs. Admission: adults $8; seniors 60+ $4; children 7-12 $4 and children 6 & under free. Times: Feb. 20, 12-8 p.m.; Feb. 21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Feb. 23, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Austin Convention Center, 500 East Cesar Chavez, Austin.

MARCH 2 86th Annual Zilker Park Kite Festival The nation’s oldest kite festival features hundreds of kites in the air. It is free to attend for people of all ages; complete with kite flying contests, food, games and more.

Shuttle buses are available. Time: 10a.m.5p.m. For more information visit: abckitefestival.com. Zilker Metropolitan Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin.

MARCH 7-16 SXSW-South By Southwest Interactive Film & Music Festival Noted filmmakers, musicians and multimedia artists from around the world converge to showcase music, film and interactive media during this internationally-recognized event. To view the entire schedule for information on concerts, shows, and tickets, please visit: sxsw.com. Austin Convention Center, 500 East Cesar Chavez, Austin.

ADVERTISERS INDEX Adorn Refined Living & Décor...................................... 53 Atmos Energy......................................................................5 Bead Bistro..........................................................Gift Guide Bell County Expo...................................................... 46, 53 Bell County Health Department......................................57 Bell County Museum........................................................27 Best Wishes Gifts................................................Gift Guide Bill French Jewelers.......................................................... 54 Bob Mills Furniture............................................................2 BuyTexasDeals.com......................................................... 60 Callie’s Boutique................................................Gift Guide Centex Golf Pass.............................................................. 54 Dossman Funeral Home.................................................. 28 EcoBlu Spa & Salon........................................................ 42 El Centro Veterinary Clinic............................................ 36 Elmcroft of Cottonwood................................................. 28 English Maids...................................................................57 Extraco Bank.................................................................... 68 Fat Charlie’s......................................................................27 Falls Furniture.....................................................Gift Guide Groutworks of Central Texas........................................... 46 Kiki Creations.....................................................Gift Guide Killeen Arts & Activities Center..................................... 22 Killeen Sewing Machine.................................................. 52 Kiska House......................................................................15 Lashes by Jessica Taylor.......................................Gift Guide Lastovica Jewelers............................................................. 25 Lochridge Priest............................................................... 60 Lucky Bebe................................................... 28, Gift Guide Marvina’s Optical Boutique...............................Gift Guide

Metroplex Hospital.............................................................3 My Giving Tree...................................................Gift Guide My Stylist Hair Salon & More............................Gift Guide Painting with a Twist....................................................... 22 Paperdoodles.......................................................Gift Guide Peaceable Kingdom Retreat................................................7 Peloton Ridge Country Club........................................... 45 Pizazz/Perry Office Plus......................................Gift Guide Precious Memories..............................................................9 Priscilla Z Photography.....................................................67 ReMax Temple/Belton.................................................... 36 Rockin R Retreat Center..................................................15 Scott’s Lawn Care............................................................ 20 Seoul Garden....................................................................27 Shoppes on Main................................................................9 Smallprints..........................................................Gift Guide Solar Centex.......................................................................7 Texas Bariatric Specialists................................................ 46 Texas BBQ & Grill...........................................................27 The Fish Bowl Pet Express..................................Gift Guide The Rustic Redhead Boutique........................................ 42 The Salon & Spa at Greenbriar.........................Gift Guide The Shoe Box......................................................Gift Guide The Woodhouse Day Spa...................................Gift Guide Topstone.......................................................................... 28 Union State Bank...............................................................5 Veranda Bloom................................................................ 54 Westside Baptist Church................................................. 46 Z Medical Aesthetics...........................................................7 Zooty’s.................................................................Gift Guide 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.

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For more information contact Lucie Fralicks at lfralicks@texappealmag.com or 254.774.5264

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BarbWIRED BY KACTUS KATE

For my darlin I love you, And I always will.

September 1956. The song also helped Elvis make history, when he became the first singer to replace himself on the billboard chart when “Love Me Tender” replaced “Don’t Be Cruel/ Hound Dog.” It is hard to believe that 56 years ago, 22-year-old ELVIS SLEPT HERE in Killeen-Central Texas. As a young G.I. going through basic training at Fort Hood, I imagine he felt about a million miles away from his southern roots and home in Memphis. And no doubt, he was totally out of his element.

Military training and field maneuvers are a far cry from a recording studio or movie set.

While stationed at Fort Hood, Elvis rented a modest, circa 1950s ranch-style home on Oakhill Drive near Conder Park in Killeen and shared the home with his parents and grandmother. According to neighbors, Elvis sometimes had to cross through their backyards to get to his house because of all the fans who were camped out in his front yard.

Elvis lived in Central Texas for only 6 months and he only lived another 19 years after he left Fort Hood. This year will mark 37 years since his death. He may be gone, but he has never been forgotten. Last year, readers of USA Today selected Graceland as the No. 1 Best Iconic American Attraction, beating out the Statue of Liberty, Mt. Rushmore and many other places of historical significance. I am sure if Elvis was alive today (he would be 79 years old), he would be quite surprised to know his music continues to influence and inspire others and pleased to know he is still dearly loved and in our hearts...

Adapted from the 1861 Civil War ballet “Aura Lee,” “Love Me Tender” received more than 1 million preorders, making it the first single to ship as a gold record before its release in

Love me tender, Love me long, Take me to your heart.

For it’s there that I belong, And will never part.

Slighty Sharp & Twisted

Love me tender ONE OF THE ALL-TIME GREATEST LOVE SONGS was recorded by legendary heart throb Elvis Presley in 1956 — just two years before he found himself stationed at Fort Hood. My maternal grandparents used to see Elvis riding his motorcycle through their neighborhood on his daily commutes to and from post; and my fraternal grandmother still recalls all the excitement he stirred at the post dental clinic where she worked, when he came in to have his wisdom teeth removed.

Nothing captures the essence of romance or the spirit of Valentine’s Day better than listening to Elvis croon this beloved love ballad.

Love me tender, Love me true, All my dreams fulfilled.

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