Tex Appeal | October & November 2022

Founded by closely-knit family and friends in Texas hill country, we’ve always had one goal in mind: to create a distinctive, out-of-this-world experience that people drive across town for. An experience to be shared through coffee plus atmosheres that inspire the warmth of cozy evenings under a summer moon.

TEXAS PROUD

There’s a natural affinity between a wood fire and coffee beans. Our wood-fired coffee roasting process results in a smooth, balanced coffee. Every batch of Summer Moon coffee is roasted in our handmade brick roasters over seasoned Texas oak. We drew up the plans, laid every brick by hand, and have dedicated the better part of two decades to proving that the wood makes it good. Our team of roasters use sight, sound, and smell to produce a distinctly bold, flavorful taste.

“I

a huge coffee drinker...

this coffee

Being a Texas basd company makes it even better, Highly recommended!

James Kliger (Google)

“The coffee and teas are amazing! Staff is amazing! Very quick service with a smile and very conveniently located by Walmart and HEB!!! Thank you Summer Moon for bringing delicious coffees and pastries to our neighborhood“

___ Shay Sanchez (Facebook)

After a pandemic pause, Altrusa’s Taste of the Holidays returns to Temple this year. | 50

ON THE COVER Physical therapist Meredith Kennedy helps women AdaPT to motherhood through her mobile clinic. | 40 Photo by SKEEBO

Five Central Texas health care professionals you should know: Hassan Asghar, Shelley Cole, Meredith Kennedy, Tim McCormick and Michael J. Parker

THE REVIEW

TEEN REVIEW Normal People

EVENTS

What’s Happening in October and November

THIS GIRL’S GARDEN Backyard b0irdsong

HEALTH & WELLNESS Visiting an oncologist

CENTEX ED Vocational classes

TEX MESSAGES

Homecoming mums

DAYTRIPPIN’ Marlin’s hot mineral water

ADVERTISING INDEX

Altrusa’s Taste of the Holidays returns to Temple in November 54

Explore Bell County’s past in medicine at historical markers 56

Art of Dance Salado offers classes for all ages 60

Iconic character actor Rip Torn was born in Temple 68

Get a taste of Czech history across Central Texas

FROM

Tex Appeal takes a little different approach to our usual fare of stories from in and around Bell County. We shook things up a bit and threw ’em against a wall to see what stuck. Here’s what we came up with:

Being Central Texan looks at a famous past resident, “Agent Zed” whom you might know as Temple’s own Rip Torn, whose prolific acting career was shaped by his early years in Bell County on page 60.

CenTex Ed looks at Career and Technology Education: Not Your Traditional Vocational Classes, educational offerings for today’s area high school students on page 62.

We introduce our newest feature, Faith, with a story about First Blessing, an organization that helps area kids get into a new pair of shoes on page 8.

There’s a lot to see in Scene this issue. We went to the Central Texas State Fair, one of Academy High School’s football games, and the Harker Heights Food, Wine & Brew Fest on pages 12-16.

Flavours features The Gin at Nolan Creek in Belton and the fantastic new menu brought to you by its new ownership on page 18.

Tex Appeal

Published by FRANK MAYBORN ENTERPRISES, INC.

KILLEEN DAILY HERALD 1809 Florence Rd., Killeen, TX 76540

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

Publisher SUE MAYBORN Editor

JANNA ZEPP

JANNA ZEPP editor@ texappealmag.com 254-774-5266

The Review recommends Between Two Kingdoms, a memoir about Suleika Jaouad's battle with cancer, Audrey Blake‘s fictional series about women practicing medicine in 19th century Europe, and Olivia Campbell’s biography Women in White Coats, which shares the story of Elizabeth Blackwell and other pioneering women doctors on page 22.

We introduce another new feature, Teen Review, written by a local teen writer, Phoenix Carlisle, who tells about an Irish Young Adult novel, Normal People on page 24.

Tex Messages puzzles over the strange and wonderful Texas tradition of massive HOCO mums on page 64. This one is a favorite of mine. I cackled as I wrote it and I hope you’ll laugh with me as you read it.

CenTex Past reminds us of the fantastic Czech heritage of Texas, especially here, and the history leading up to the Czech diaspora to America on page 68. History buffs will also enjoy our special story on historical markers of health care past in Bell County on page 54.

Daytrippin’ takes us to Marlin, home of hot mineral springs that once drew thousands of people for its healing properties back in the early 20th century and is now luring tourists back for its novelty on page 66.

Put your dancing shoes on and join us at Salado’s Art of Dance in our Entrepreneur feature on page 56 to learn about the new business with a creative twist.

Nutrition and Fitness’ Carey Stites continues sharing reports of her cancer battle and what you need to know for a conversation with an oncologist on page 58.

Our special on Central Texas Health Care Professionals includes a look at a doctor on the move, Meredith Kennedy, Ph.D. and physical therapist who makes house calls on page 40, as well as other health care professionals to know starting on page 32.

Altrusa’s popular Taste of the Holidays event returns this year after a long, COVID-induced hiatus and the details of what’s coming are on page 50.

Some of your favorite features, such as Neighbor and Meet the Makers will return in an expanded fashion for Christmas in our upcoming Holiday issue. We’ll also celebrate Tex Appeal’s 10th anniversary in print. Yes! It’s really been a decade of telling Central Texas stories and we’re looking forward to many more.

Happy Halloween and Thanksgiving, y’all!

Janna Zepp Tex Appeal editor

Graphic Designer M. CLARE HAEFNER

Contributors

RHONDA BLACKLOCK LISA CARLISLE

PHOENIX CARLISLE

SKEEBO REICHERT AMY ROGNLIE

BECKY STINEHOUR CAREY STITES

RACHEL STRICKLAND

JOHNA UNDERWOOD TONYA WARREN

Advertising

254-778-4444 in Temple 254-501-7500 in Killeen

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS:

For the United States, $24 per year, 6 issues. Mail check to P.O. Box 6114, Temple, TX 76503-6114. For questions about subscriptions, call 254-778-4444.

POSTMASTER:

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

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

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

RHONDA BLACKLOCK is Mom to two active teenage boys. From Belton, she has a business degree from the University of Phoenix. She’s the administrative assistant for the advertising department at the Temple Daily Telegram. She has one children’s book published and hopes to publish her first novel soon. In her free time she can be found traveling Texas and beyond, “hunting” for historical markers, and fun, unique places to visit. She has a new blog you can check out, Texas Travel Gal, at www.texastravelgal.com.

LISA CARLISLE is Tex Appeal’s account executive, having previously worked in the health care field. Lisa is a wife and mother of five — two girls and three boys, together they enjoy exploring locally and you can always find them outdoors or in the water. She is a native Austinite and has lived in Temple for five years. She also is a member of the Betty Martin DAR chapter. Her hobbies include photography, genealogy, cooking, family time and festivals.

PHOENIX CARLISLE is an honor roll student at Lake Belton High School. She is a involved in theater, the Belton Youth Advisory Council, UIL, and with the Temple library. Phoenix is an avid reader and aspires to become an English professor and travel the world.

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

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

JOIN OUR TEAM

CONTRIBUTORS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Finding the Perfect Fit

FIRST BLESSING PROVIDES SHOES TO CHILDREN IN NEED AND BRINGS COMMUNITY TOGETHER

By AMY ROGNLIE | Photos courtesy of GLENN LACKEY

Glenn Lackey’s 25-year career in the shoe business made him acutely aware of just how many children in the Temple area lacked properly fitting shoes. This, combined with his wife Deborah’s experience as a television advertising executive and marketing skills and with much prayer, the First Blessing Ministry was born at First Baptist Church in Temple in 2014.

The idea was straightforward: First Blessing would work with local schools to identify local families in need of well-fitting shoes. Then the church would host an event where church members could share a meal with those families and each child would leave with a pair of new shoes, socks and a Bible.

Not only would this event meet a very real need in the community, but it would also provide opportunities for members of First Baptist Church to engage in meaningful conversations with families that they might not encounter otherwise.

The inaugural First Blessing event at FBC Temple in 2014 reached 300 children and parents. In 2021, First Blessing partnered with 43 congregations across Texas to serve more than 6,000 children and

saw over 200 people give their life to Christ during First Blessing events. 2022 is shaping up to be their biggest year yet.

“This is my way of worshiping God…by serving my community in this capacity,” Lackey said. “Our ministry is based on Matthew 25, where Jesus commands His followers to minister to those in need. To my knowledge, there is not another ministry doing the exact same thing we do.”

Feedback from local teachers and counselors has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Some students don’t get to participate in the required physical activities if they don’t have the proper shoes,” said Gill Hollie, coordinator of Community Connections at Temple Independent School District. “If the students can’t participate, they will receive a failing grade. By having First Blessing in the schools, kids can get a new pair of shoes free of charge and the impact of that is huge.”

For children especially, not having basic needs met is often a barrier to being able to focus on their education.

A hungry child is not going to be concerned about learning material for a quiz but rather where or when their next meal will be. Likewise, a child in pain because his shoes have long been outgrown or have been worn threadbare will be distracted from learning.

“First Blessing can't remove all barriers to learning, but we can remove one,” Lackey said.

First Blessing’s events are unique in that they are intentionally structured so that parents and children interact with at least seven different church members during the event.

“That's at least seven different opportunities for parents and their families to connect and have meaningful conversations with someone in their community,” Lackey said.

During the event, the families are also served a sit-down meal prepared by the volunteers. It is a treat for single parents with young children to be able to relax and enjoy being served.

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Volunteers

GET INVOLVED WITH FIRST BLESSING

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Website: www.firstblessing.org

Email: Glenn.Lackey@firstblessing.org

Facebook:

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But by far, the most unique aspect of a First Blessing event is that the children get a real shoeshopping experience. Organizers set up a mini shoe store and provide a variety of sizes and styles for children to choose from. Volunteers are on hand to help them decide by making suggestions based on favorite colors, styles or even characters (for the little ones). Then they help the children verify their choices fit properly.

“One parent could not stop complimenting me on how awesome this event was,” said Les Williams, pastor of Sunset Community Church in Killeen. “They thought they were going to stand in a line and be given a pair of shoes. Instead, they were seated and served a meal. His kids felt valued as they tried on the socks and got fitted for shoes and then his kids got to pick out the shoes of their choice.”

The ultimate goal of First Blessing is to provide an opportunity for an entire church body to come together in an act of service to reach people in their immediate area of influence that are not connected to a church or who may have never even heard the gospel. Host churches recruit volunteers from their congregation, which not makes First Blessing events possible but also brings the church body together for a common purpose and creates stronger relationships among the membership.

First Blessing is also focused on the creation of

Every First Blessing event also includes a hot meal for families and church volunteers to share before children get new shoes and socks to take home.

relationships and partnerships that extend beyond the church walls and into the community, creating the potential to collaborate on other projects. Recently, Lackey and his team joined with other ministries and programs to provide material and spiritual resources in Bell County and beyond, including an orphanage in North Texas and a ministry to immigrant children in Houston.

1. Harker Heights Chamber President Gina Spence, Mayor Spencer H. Smith and Mayor Pro Tem Jenn McCann enjoy the Harker Heights Food, Wine & Brew Fest in September. The city and the chamber sponsor the annual event.

2. Employees of the Thirsty Mule Winery in Liberty Hill had samples ready for festival-goers to taste.

3. Viva Kulp and Alba Rodriguez enjoy a frozen treat.

4. The 1st Cavalry Division’s Brass Band kept the crowd entertained with music from the main stage.

5. Gabriel Ramirez and Sandra Nunez enjoy a drink.

6. Miguel Barrientos Jr., Maria Barrientos and Miguel Barrientos enjoyed the festival.

Photos by BECKY STINEHOUR

1. Academy High School’s cheerleaders include, front row, from left, Cortney Dutcher, Kaidynce Patton, Blaine Roberts and Sophie Hebert; and back row, from left, Sophie Martinez, Marlee Taggart, Mackenzie Peters, Addie Bland, Sarai Lopez, Makayla Wical, Caitlyn Reimer and Reese Gaskin.

ACADEMY VS.

2. Kristi Urban cheers on her team while serving the famous Academy Band Boosters barbecue sandwich during a game against Rogers.

3. Rogers High School cheerleaders, Rian Charanza, Katie Kosel and McKenzie Welch, show their school spirit.

Photos by DAVE HEDGE

1. A rodeo clown encourages the crowd to cheer for participants of the mutton bustin’ event.

2. Rhett Hughes hangs on during a mechanical bull ride on the midway at the Central Texas State Fair in Belton.

3. Kids enjoy a carnival ride.

4. PBR fans wait for the rodeo to start.

5. Crowds head home after the fair winds down with a concert.

Photos by BECKY STINEHOUR

is

best healthcare possible, in a kind and caring environment, while respecting the rights of all patients, in an economical manner, at times and locations convenient to the patient.

HISTORIC BELTON BUILDING GETS NEW LIFE AS The Gin at Nolan Creek

By LISA CARLISLE | Photos courtesy of THE GIN

Belton is an old city with a new feel. As the city grows, we are seeing an increasing trend in the old meeting the new. Amazing historical buildings getting new life and ownership, and nothing highlights this better than our very familiar Gin at Nolan Creek. The Gin has been a local staple for almost 100 years, having been through several transformations to become the beautiful restaurant and event space it is today.

The transformation grows further under the recent new veteran ownership and operation of Travis and Sarah Trumbull. Together they bring 20 years of restaurant experience as well as a fresh take on the direction they want to take The Gin.

“We are so excited to be the new owners of The Gin at Nolan Creek,” Sarah said. “This place has always been special to us, and we can’t wait to share our vision for the future with everyone.”

The Trumbulls hope to enhance their menu, increase community involvement, as well as

highlight the atmosphere and ambiance of the event spaces.

“We want to make The Gin at Nolan Creek the best it can be,” Travis said. “We are dedicated to giving our customers an unforgettable experience every time they visit.”

This sincerity is instantly reflected the moment you're welcomed by the friendly staff.

The main dining area once housed The Gin’s large cotton machinery, it remains open with high ceilings, original beams, warm woods and stunning fixtures. Well placed dining tables offer beautiful views of Nolan Creek. The wait staff is kind and happy to make suggestions, starting with an array of appetizers like thick-cut onion rings or the delectable Cotton Balls. The menu includes southern favorites like a hefty size portion of chicken-fried steak and crispy golden fried catfish.

It also features several new flavor packed items like the brisket quesadilla and the refreshing avocado tacos. Top it off with some too-temptingto-pass-up southern classic desserts such as peach cobbler or the modernized donut “bread” pudding.

Following a series of descending stairs, the Continued

Travis and Sarah Trumbull are the new owners of The Gin at Nolan Creek in Belton. They plan to enhance the Southern menu, with items like Mahi Mahi tacos and fish and chips.

former press foundation stands regally, remade as a bar ready to serve drinks for anyone's taste. The bar is fully stocked and offers custom-crafted cocktails like The Gin’s signature Texas Bluebonnet Margarita as well as a full wine list. Following the ascending staircase, walking alongside stainedglass windows, you’ll find the converted loft dining space.

The Gin at Nolan Creek has two party rooms to accommodate a host of events. The Banquet room in the former seed house, can seat up to 70 people with indoor and outdoor space. This special room has an 100-inch screen and projector set up, ready for any occasion. The second event space, the Board Room, features a private balcony accessed by The Gin’s original wooden sliding doors from 1927. The balcony overlooks the creek, and it is perfect for family or work functions.

The Gin at Nolan Creek a fantastic and unique location for a casual lunch after visiting the creek or a romantic dinner with craft cocktails. At The Gin, you will feel a part of both the history and the beautiful growth in Belton.

Sarah and Travis Trumbull want their patrons to know, "We are not in the restaurant business, we are in the people business. Our mission is to give back to our community, not only through donations and sponsorships, but by creating a work

environment that betters the lives and futures of our team through our core values, which, in turn, will create quality food and memorable experiences for our guests."

Come by The Gin at Nolan Creek for some Southern comfort food and a bit of history. Make sure to say hello to Ginny, The Gin’s beloved cat mascot.

Four Must-Read Medical Books

By M. CLARE HAEFNER Covers courtesy of the book publishers

Whether you’re a patient, a survivor, a caregiver or someone struggling with the loss of a loved one to cancer, Suleika Jaouad’s Between Two Kingdoms: A Memoir of a Life Interrupted (Random House, February 2021) should be on your reading list.

Dividing her life between being sick and being well, Jaouad spares few details as she shares her nearly four-year battle with cancer after a diagnosis at age 22.

Though much of her journey was chronicled through her “Life, Interrupted” column in the New York Times, Between Two Kingdoms relates how Jaouad pieces her life back together as she struggles to reclaim her life after going into remission.

Not sure what to do next, she sets out on a 100-day, 15,000-mile road trip across the U.S. to meet several of the strangers who wrote to her while she was receiving treatment. One of my favorites was Lil’ GQ, a death row inmate in Texas, with whom Jaouad forms a tenuous bond — both understanding what life in isolation feels like.

Throughout her journey, Jaouad realizes that “human experiences bridge differences that might otherwise feel insurmountable.” Finding what we have in common and learning to lean on others are lessons she relates that resonated with me. Between Two Kingdoms is a poignant, yet hopeful, reminder to never give up because it’s never too late to begin again.

After Jaouad’s emotional memoir, I wanted something a little lighter to read, so I turned to historical fiction and stumbled upon a pair of books that details the challenges faced by women wanting to practice medicine in 19th century Europe.

Audrey Blake, the pseudonym of writing partners Regina Sirois and Jaima Fixsen, begins the story with The Girl in His Shadow (Sourcebooks Landmark, May 2021). It introduces readers to Nora Beady, an orphan raised by renown London

surgeon Dr. Horace Croft, who dreams of being recognized for her accomplishments as his trusted assistant. The arrival of surgical resident Dr. Daniel Gibson forces Nora to play the role of a proper young lady until she makes a discovery that could change the field of medicine forever.

Forced to decide whether to let the men around her take credit or step out of the shadows and risk everything she’s worked for, the riveting story relates what life was probably like for the few women aspiring to be doctors in England in the mid-1800s.

Even if medicine is not your thing, the relationships between Nora, Daniel, Dr. Croft and the other characters will keep you reading, and it’s inspiring to see how one woman struggles to break free from societal stereotypes in Victorian England.

Nora’s story continues in The Surgeon’s Daughter (Sourcebooks Landmark, May 2022). She’s now in Italy studying medicine and working alongside Magdalena Morenco, the sole female doctor on the university's staff as they attempt to improve a groundbreaking surgery: the Cesarean section.

In real history, Bologna was well-known as a haven for women aspiring to break free of societal expectations, so the city is the perfect backdrop for Nora and Magdalena’s attempt to gain acceptance among their male colleagues. It’s also a fitting place to attempt to change the world and women’s roles in the workplace.

I further explored pioneering women in a work of biographical nonfiction.

Olivia Campbell’s Women in White Coats: How the First Women Doctors Changed the World of Medicine (Park Row Books, March 2021) delves into what motivated Elizabeth Blackwell, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson and Sophia Jex-Blake to fight for their places in the maledominated field and create medical care for women by women. Their courage and willingness to break boundaries in the 19th century reshaped how women receive care and paved the way for countless others to become doctors today.

(254) 831-5040

254-624-8499

Fall in Love with Rooney’s Prose

IRISH AUTHOR WINS OVER READERS IN NORMAL PEOPLE

By PHOENIX CARLISLE Cover courtesy of the book publisher

Normal People by Irish author Sally Rooney (Hogarth, 2019) is a coming-of-age romance that tells the memorable journey of Connell and Marianne. At school, Connell and Marianne pretend not to know each other. He’s popular and well-adjusted, star of the school soccer team while she is lonely, proud and intensely private. But when Connell picks up his mother from her housekeeping job at Marianne’s house, a strange and indelible connection grows between the two teenagers — one they are determined to conceal.

A year later, they’re both studying at Trinity College in Dublin. Marianne has found her feet in a new social world while Connell hangs at the sidelines, shy and uncertain. Throughout their years in college, Marianne and Connell circle one another, straying toward other people and possibilities but always magnetically, irresistibly drawn back together. Then, as she veers into selfdestruction and he begins to search for meaning elsewhere, each must confront how far they are willing to go to save the other. The novel follows the couple as they fall in and out of love throughout their teens and mid-20s. We get to read their souls and hearts as they find each other over and over again.

I’ve read my share of love stories, yet none of them have stayed with me the way Normal People has. The way Connell and Marianne always found each other when they needed one another was beautiful. It was always perfectly

convenient; someone got dumped or they went home for holidays at the same time. The couple always coming back to love was a highlight, but they could cut each other off as fast as they found each other. Once they were done with one another they were done…until next time.

Besides an incredible plot, the likable main characters made me want to root for them. It seems that, with novels these days, it’s hard to find one likable main character, let alone two. The characters combined with the plot were just “chef’s kiss” perfect. Rooney’s spare prose writing style and the ending of the book made it worth the read.

Although I adore this book, there are a few flaws within its pages. I enjoyed it because Ireland is not a common setting in books I’ve read. But as I was reading, I couldn’t remember the story was set in Ireland. I’d be happily picturing a scene somewhere closer to home and then the story would mention something Irish causing me to re-imagine everything. Not only was the country unclear, so were the settings. Sometimes I would go to the next chapter completely lost despite the beautiful imagery in Rooney’s prose.

Normal People is a heart-wrenching love story that will remain with you long after you read it. I absolutely recommend this book to anyone who wants to root for hope and needs to feel something deeply. You will fall in love with our lovers as they fall in love with each other. Just make sure you know what Ireland looks like. Happy reading!

Overall rating: 5/5 stars

OCTOBER 2022

9:30 AM – 6 PM, OCTOBER 1

10 AM – 3 PM, OCTOBER 2

SIRENA'S CREEKSIDE CARNAVAL

Hosted by Legacy Salado Inc, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit, honors the beloved tale of Indian maiden, Sirena, by bringing together the community for two days of fun with the purpose of investing back into the community and providing a space that children of all abilities can enjoy. Proceeds from the event go toward building an allabilities playground in Salado. Pace Park in Salado 254-760-5179 sirenafestsalado@gmail.com www.sirenafest.org

2:30 PM, OCTOBER 2

7:30 PM, OCTOBER 6

7:30 PM, OCTOBER 7

7:30 PM, OCTOBER 8

2:30 PM, OCTOBER 9

MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS

Just after midnight, a snowdrift stops the Orient Express in its tracks. The luxurious train is surprisingly full for the time of the year, but by the morning it is one passenger fewer. An American tycoon lies dead in his compartment, stabbed eight times, his door locked from the inside. Isolated and with a killer in their midst, the passengers rely on detective Hercule Poirot to identify the murderer – in case he or she decides to strike again. Temple Civic Theatre 2413 S. 13th St., Temple 254-778-4751 templecivictheatre.com

7:30 PM, OCTOBER 8

FEI-FEI DONG

The Central Texas Orchestral Society and Temple Symphony Orchestra continue the tradition, celebrating 15 years of presenting a Van Cliburn Piano Competition finalist. Fei-Fei Dong returns to the Temple stage after sharing her joy for music through her performance here in 2014. FeiFei was showcased in The Cliburn documentary film, Virtuosity, which premiered in 2015 on PBS. Tickets: Adults, $25; Students, $5; Military/

Dependents, free Cultural Activities Center 3011 N. Third St., Temple 254-773-9926 cac.ctos@gmail.com www.cacarts.org

7:30 PM OCTOBER 14 & 15 2:30 PM OCTOBER 15 & 16

THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW Washington Irving’s spooky Halloween classic is presented with all the thrills, chills and laughs that keep young audiences on the edge of their seats. The storybook tale revolves around the famous characters — the bumbling, awkward schoolteacher, Ichabod Crane, the coquettish Katrina and Ichabod's brutish rival, Brom Bones. As much fun as the play presents, it saves the best for last — the ride of the headless horseman! A perfect Halloween treat, this show is exciting family entertainment any time of the year.

Temple Civic Theatre

2413 S. 13th St., Temple 254- 778-4751 templecivictheatre.com

7:30 AM – 10 AM, OCTOBER 15

THE 9TH ANNUAL BREAST CANCER 5K WALK

All are encouraged to participate in person; or through Walking Pods at a location of your choice while Zooming via Live stream during the Walk. This year's sponsors include H-E-B, Mac Haik Temple, Chick-Fil-A Killeen, Harper-Talasek Funeral Home, the City of Killeen, Brett E. Williams & Family, Realty Executives of Killeen, Girl Scouts Troop 6304, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Omicron Pi Chapter, and the Greater Killeen Community Clinic. Together, we are working hand in hand to bring awareness to breast cancer to the community! Funds will go towards providing free mammogram screenings to men and

women who qualify and are uninsured.

Adult Registration: $25.00, Youth Registration: $15.00, Late Registration: $25.00. www.eventbrite.com/e/killeenbreast-cancer-5k-tickets. Contact: Detra Davis, 254.681.8511 or via email at naacpkilleentx@yahoo.com. Hike & Bike Trail at Lions Club Park 1700 E. Stan Schlueter Loop, Killeen

5 PM – 10 PM, OCTOBER 15

INNOVATION BLACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S CULTURE ON THE SQUARE JAMBOREE

Come join in outdoor fun for the whole family and let's support local businesses.

The Village United 324 E. Avenue D, Killeen grand-events@innovationbcc.org or 254-300-6027

www.eventbrite.com/e/culture-on-thesquare-jamboree-oct-15-2022-tickets

…David helped me in the selling and purchasing process every step of the way. He is very knowledgeable and professional. I appreciate the extra time he spent answering my questions. He was patient and never made me feel like he wasn’t looking out for the best for me. Highly recommend him and will definitely use him in future if needed.

Gloria Cruz

Miya Williams, coordinator of the Culture on the Square jamboree, welcomes the crowd the inaugural event in downtown Killeen in 2021.

EVENTS

7:30 PM, OCTOBER 15

JACK INGRAM

Throughout a recording career that has spanned more than 20 years, Jack Ingram has maintained a reputation for uncompromising, personally charged song craft and energetic, charismatic performances, earning him prominent stature in a prestigious tradition of iconoclastic singer-songwriters.

Tickets: Members, $40; Non-members, $45

Cultural Activities Center

3011 N. Third St., Temple 254-773-9926 cac.ctos@gmail.com www.cacarts.org

7:30 PM, OCTOBER 21

7:30 PM, OCTOBER 22

5 PM, OCTOBER 23

7:30 PM, OCTOBER 28

7:30 PM, OCTOBER 29

5 PM, OCTOBER 30

SHE LOVES ME

Set in a 1930s European perfumery, we meet shop clerks, Amalia and Georg, who, more often than not, don’t see eye to eye. After both respond to a “lonely hearts advertisement” in the newspaper, they now live for the love letters that they exchange, but the identity of their admirers remains unknown. Join Amalia and Georg to discover the identity of their true loves… and all the twists and turns along the way!

Central Texas Theatre 3401 S. WS Young Drive, Killeen operations@vlakilleen.org 254-526-9090 vlakilleen.org

4 PM – 6 PM, OCTOBER 29

BELTON CANDY TRAIL

Make sure your little ghouls and goblins have a bag large enough to hold all the candy they’ll be scoring from the shops and businesses in downtown Belton during this annual Halloween event.

NOVEMBER 2022

7:30 PM, NOVEMBER 5

HAYES CARLL

The country simplicity that imbues

Nature in Lights returns to BLORA on Nov. 11, with miles of festive displays on view through Jan. 8.

Hayes Carll’s songs can sometimes hide the social conscience and sharp humor that also runs through them, but if you want to find those things, they are there. In fact, Carll has spent over 20 years having a conversation about what it is we’re all doing here with anyone who will listen. He makes us laugh – but then he makes us cry. We judge a song’s protagonist, only for Carll to spin us around to commiserate with them. Tickets: Members, $40; Non-members, $45 Cultural Activities Center 3011 N. Third St., Temple 254-773-9926 cac.ctos@gmail.com www.cacarts.org

5:30 PM – 11 PM, NOVEMBER 11 THROUGH JANUARY 8

BLORA NATURE IN LIGHTS

Enjoy the drive through Belton Lake and Outdoor Recreation Area’s more than five and a half miles of holidayinspired scenes. Like magic, BLORA is transformed into a winter wonderland for all to enjoy. Nightly, including the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Gate Fees: Car, mini-van & pickup – $15; Limos, RV & 15-passenger van – $30; 24-passenger van – $50; 47-passenger van or bus – $75 7999 Sparta Road, Fort Hood, northwest of Belton 254-287-2523

www.hoodmwr.com/nature-in-lights

CareAge HomeCare was founded in 2006 in Temple, Tx by Vickie Smith and JoAnn Walter. While caring for JoAnn’s mother and seeing the challenges she faced, they realized some times all the elderly need is a little assistance…assistance to stay in their home with peace of mind and freedom from worry. A caring, warm smile of someone who has a genuine concern for them and a helping hand that allows them to meet their daily needs, with independence to maintain the lifestyle they choose. Serving Bell and surrounding counties. Ask about Veterans Care.

(254) 780-9864

4016 S. 31st Street, Ste 100, Temple careagehomecare.com

ATMOS ENERGY IS FUELING SAFE AND THRIVING COMMUNITIES

Compassion to give back to the communities we serve ows through the heart and soul of Atmos Energy’s employees. We are committed to helping students have a bright and healthy future by ghting childhood hunger and focusing on reading on level by 3rd grade, showing appreciation to our hometown heroes, and providing assistance to our neighbors in need. We are proud to play a vital role in the communities we serve with our time, talent and resources.

Vickie

JoAnn

Backyard Birdsong

LEARN TO RECOGNIZE DIFFERENT SINGERS IN YOUR GARDEN’S CHOIR

By AMY ROGNLIE

Ihave often pondered Humbert Wolfe’s lovely, poetic imagery that captures the exquisite beauty of birdsong at sunrise. Waking to the birds “flinging their bright seed of song” in happy abandon is one of life’s small happinesses, though I could never express the sentiment as poetically as Wolfe.

Often in the predawn quiet, still sleep-logged, I overhear my backyard choristers tuning up with a tentative chirp or two before their full-blown recital begins with the sun’s first rays. The common, comical mockingbirds are often the lead singers, of course, but other distinctive voices soon join in.

Listening closely on any given day, I can pretty easily recognize the chirps and calls of the cardinal, dove, mockingbird and chickadee, but try as I might, I still haven’t identified one particular song. Walking out into the yard at random times, I often hear an unknown bird belting out a little repeated phrase that sounds like “Get ready, get ready, get ready.”

Apparently, I am not the only one who hears backyard birds speak

“I shall wake presently,” he thought, “at daylight.

It is the season of larks.

They will be flinging

the bright seed of song in the furrows of grey light till the East is gold with the smooth sheaves of singing.”

— Humbert Wolfe

“words.” In on online search, I found entire lists of birdsong mnemonics. Yep. It’s true, our feathered friends have a language of their own, but sometimes they sound curiously like us.

I learned that the barred owl, who is not even a Texan, has a nice drawl: “Who-cooks-for-you; who-cooks-for-you-all?” And who knew that the blue jay was such a conversationalist?

Reportedly, one could be serenaded by a blue jay singing “Fee-der-de-lurp. Jay-jay-jay.

Tips for October & November

Once the intense summer heat has abated, fall and winter is prime time for gardening in Central Texas.

Since we still (hopefully) have such a long time before a killing frost, now is a perfect time to plant a second crop of veggies from transplants and even seeds.

To plant in October and early November:

• Trees and Shrubs

• Vegetables: beets (seeds or transplants), broccoli (transplants), cabbage (transplants), carrots (seeds), cauliflower (transplants), chard (seeds or transplants), collards (seeds or transplants), fava beans, garlic, cool-season greens (seeds),

Queedle-queedle-queedle,” while the brown-headed cowbird gleefully whistles “Bubble-bubble-zeeee!”

If your gardening is interrupted by a chirrupy version of “Oh; dear me; three blind mice,” you will know a golden-crowned sparrow is perched somewhere nearby.

But how to discern who is saying what in the midst of all of the queedling, bubbling and fee-der-delurping?

The easiest way to begin is to watch a bird and listen to its sound at the same time so you can begin

kale (seed or transplants), kohlrabi (seeds or transplants), leeks (seeds or transplants), lettuce (seeds or transplants), onion, radish, spinach (seeds or transplants), turnip

• Flowers: alyssum, pansy, calendula, snapdragon, mums.

• Do NOT be tempted to plant flower bulbs (daffodils, tulips, etc.) yet, as it is too early. In our area, flower bulbs should be planted around Thanksgiving or even in early December. Because tulips require weeks of winter cold to bloom and thrive, tulips will usually only bloom the first year they are planted and not come each year as they would in a less temperate climate.

to associate the type of bird with its sound. It is also helpful learn the names of birds so you can look them up online and listen to recordings of the various caws, fee-bees, too-whits and ooo-ooo-oooing, along with the standard chirping, tweeting and singing.

Year-round residents of Central Texas include the northern cardinal, northern mockingbird, blue jay, house finch, sparrow, lesser goldfinch, mourning dove and white-winged dove, the European starling, Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse and

black-crested titmouse, cowbird, and several types of wrens and woodpeckers.

Focus on one type of bird first and learn its name. Smaller birds usually have higher-pitched tones while the songs of larger birds will often have a deeper pitch.

Listen for the rhythm, pace and tone of a song, and see if you can identify one part at a time.

Before you realize it, you will be able to recognize each singer in your yard’s choir, all before you even open your eyes in the morning.

Dr. Hassan Asghar Internal Medicine | Seton & Wellstone Health Partners

Dr. Hassan Asghar and certified medical assistant Veronica Folgueral are a vital part of Seton Medical Center | Wellstone Health Partners’ mission to keep Central Texas residents healthy.

By JANNA ZEPP | Photo by BECKY STINEHOUR

Hassan Asghar, DO, internal medicine at Seton Medical Center | Wellstone Health Partners in Harker Heights, is a superhero of sorts. Unlike Dr. Strange of the Marvel Universe, he’s more Dr. Lifestyle or Dr. Whole Patient, and he works without a cape. His specialty of internal medicine deals with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of internal diseases. Asghar, like his fellow internists, are skilled in the management of patients who have a lot going on health-wise and they care for hospitalized and ambulatory patients. Often, internists play a major role in teaching and research.

“Because internal medicine is a very broad specialty your experience with providers can vary greatly. You may find some providers prescribe certain medications while others don’t,” Asghar says. “Every provider does things differently. If you find that your primary care provider isn’t a good fit for you don’t be discouraged and feel free to see a couple before you stick to one.”

Asghar is also in a small percentage of physicians in the United States who are Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, who bring a unique, patient-centered approach to every specialty across the full spectrum of medicine. They are trained to listen and partner with

symptoms can often be gradual and progressive causing them to become overlooked,” Asghar says. “If diabetes goes uncontrolled for years it can lead to a multitude of problems such as nerve damage, heart disease, or vision impairment so it is really important to get routine bloodwork.”

The good news, according to Asghar, is that diabetes management is really picking up with great new options to control blood glucose. A lot of newer studies are showing diabetes medications that have benefits for preventing heart related illnesses.

Asghar says patients can do a lot to help speed their recovery or keep their treatment working for them.

“Drinking plenty of water, exercising and keeping a somewhat regulated diet will help with most medical problems. The best thing you can do with your doctor is to be honest. If a medication is not working for you and you are not taking it, please bring it up because there could be better options,” he says. “If you do not want to take a medication, feel free to tell us. A lot of patients feel the stigma of being ‘noncompliant’ or they think misbehaving when they don’t take their medications. This doesn’t need to be the case. Most providers will work with you to reach a common middle ground.”

Asghar credits his early mentors with helping him be a better doctor.

“Dr. Gonzalez from Southwestern University in Georgetown was my microbiology professor who

really helped me understand the framework of how things work which helped me learn medicine. Dr. Reddy from Arnot Ogden Medical Center in Elmira, New York, was one of my attendings during training and really helped me learn how to approach things from both an analytical perspective and also with common sense,” he says. “I still keep in touch with Dr. Reddy who is an internal medicine provider. I reach out to him from time to time to continue learning.”

When not focusing on medicine, Asghar is a bit of a foodie. He says he loves the different dining options in Central Texas. And he has family in the area, as well as some back home in Pakistan.

“My father owned gas stations and slowly grew his own business. Currently, he owns a Honda dealership in Pakistan. My mother is a stay at home mother who completed medical school in Pakistan but did not pursue anything more because of her kids. I have one older brother, one younger brother, and one younger sister. A total of four siblings including myself.”

Asghar is also a gamer and graphic novel enthusiast, in addition to being a new father.

“I am passionate about video games. I played many console games in the past but mostly play computer games now. I like to watch movies with my wife. I love Marvel. I love my 2 cats Apollo and Persephone. I just had a baby boy in August, so most of my spare time goes to him now,” says Asghar with a big smile. “I’m tired, but I love being a father.”

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Seeking Alternatives to the Status Quo

By JANNA ZEPP | Photo by SKEEBO

For nearly 30 years, Shelley Cole, M.D., has worked to help her Central Texas patients get and stay well. Her practice, HealthySuccessWorks, sees patients suffering from obesity, diabetes, thyroid conditions, hypertension, cancer, autoimmune disease and complicated gynecologic conditions. The difference for Cole’s patients is that the doctor practices integrative medicine rather than the traditional medicine with which most patients are familiar.

Formerly known as complementary and alternative medicine, integrative medicine involves health care practices not traditionally a part of conventional medicine. In many cases, as evidence of efficacy and safety grows, these therapies are being combined with conventional medicine. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health is a good tool for researching considered therapies, as well as conversations with primary care providers before beginning any new treatment.

A graduate of Texas A&M University, where she also studied medicine, Cole says she did her residency at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

“After seven years in Minnesota, I could not wait to get to Texas and out of the cold,” Cole says, laughing. “I love it here. There is no better place to live than Texas.”

Speaking of the Mayo Clinic, with regard to integrative medicine, it says it can help people with cancer, persistent pain, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, and many other conditions better manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life by reducing fatigue, pain and anxiety.

“I loved taking care of all of the patient’s needs throughout the decades,” Cole says. “We have had a comprehensive wellness program for 26 years to help people reach their health goals.”

Cole believes diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, can be reversed so patients do not have to be on medications for the rest of their lives.

“My practice focuses on getting and staying well. We help people get off medications, not on them,” she says. “We also provide early treatment for COVID care and vaccine exemption evaluations.”

Cole says fatigue and pain are sure signs that something is not quite right, and the culprit might be toxins in the body. “Once you remove some of the burden of toxins in the body, the body can naturally detox on its own,” she adds.

Cole lists among her mentors fellow physicians such as Dr. Peter McCullough, and her father, Dr. Vernon William Cole.

“He had a passion for learning that he instilled in me,” Cole says.

KITCHEN & BATH

Meredith Kennedy

Helping Mothers

AdaPT with Custom Physical Therapy

By RACHEL STRICKLAND | Photo by SKEEBO

Ever since she saw a physical therapist providing aquatic therapy to a child in a swimming pool, Meredith Kennedy knew that she wanted to pursue a career in the field. What she didn’t know at the time was that she’d eventually have her own mobile clinic and find a passion for helping women through maternity and postpartum physical therapy.

Kennedy went to Belton High School where she first started observing physical therapists, which helped solidify her career choice in her mind. She went to the University of Texas for undergrad and then the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston for graduate school, which is where she received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.

As a DPT, Kennedy can diagnose injuries, which means she can accurately determine if a patient is a good candidate for physical therapy, or if they need to go to a physician for further treatment.

Kennedy began her own mobile clinic, AdaPT, in July 2020 when she was living in Houston. In May 2021, her family moved to Salado, which is where her clinic is now based.

Because it’s a mobile clinic, there’s no physical address for patients to visit. Instead, Kennedy goes to patients’ houses. She said she will meet some of her patients in their backyard, garage or even at their local gym. She has contracts with some gyms in the area so that she can treat patients there.

Mobile clinics are becoming more popular, Kennedy said, explaining that she chose to go the mobile route because of the lack of one-on-one attention that is common in typical physical therapy clinics. She also noticed that sometimes patients struggled to carry-over what they’d learned in a session to their everyday lives.

“Maybe their equipment’s slightly different,” Kennedy said. “Or maybe they don’t have a table or an area to do their exercises in.”

KELLY GARCIA, AIA

“specializing

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Essentially, she felt that patients would be more likely to succeed with their therapy if she helped them in their home with their own equipment and showed them exactly where to do their exercises.

“I wanted to be in the patient’s environment.

1023 Canyon Creek Drive Suite 125 Temple, TX 76502

KELLY GARCIA, AIA Owner, Architect

Owner, Architect

KELLY GARCIA, AIA Owner, Architect

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I wanted to rehabilitate them in their normal environment that they’re most comfortable in,” she said.

Kennedy is also an adjunct professor at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in the physical therapy department where she teaches graduatelevel musculoskeletal courses. Her courses teach hands-on techniques.

While she enjoys the lecture section of her classes, it’s the lab portion that she really loves because of the interactive element. “It’s fun,” she said. “I love doing it. I get to interact with the students, and it’s just a great environment.”

Most of Kennedy’s background and experiences are in sports medicine and orthopedic injuries. However, since having children, she’s developed a passion for helping women who are pregnant or postpartum, and that’s the area in which she’s been trying to focus and grow.

“I feel like we’re missing treatment for that period of our lives,” she said. “Honestly, that’s why I created my company.” She named her clinic AdaPT because mothers are always adapting to new roles in life. While she still treats orthopedic injuries at her clinic as well, she really would like to expand her pregnancy and postpartum clientele.

Kennedy’s maternity and postpartum treatments

mainly consist of education. She said women’s bodies are constantly changing throughout pregnancy and afterward, which is why learning what’s going on is important.

Even postpartum, she said, ligaments are lax and joints are loose, so learning techniques for how to move, hold the baby, and increase stabilization in the hip and pelvic region can drastically reduce pain and discomfort.

There’s no denying that Kennedy’s clinic and approach to health care are unique. Not only does she not accept insurance, which allows her more leeway with treatment plans, she also acknowledges that her approach is very patientoriented.

“I might have two clients who have the same exact diagnosis, but because I have more time to spend with them, I can give them individualized care,” she said.

It’s clear that Kennedy has a passion for what she does. “I really just love helping people,” she said. “And people come to physical therapy because they want to get back to their livelihood. They want to get back to doing their sport or just being able to get on the floor and play with their kids or grandkids. And I want to help them get back to what they love doing.”

Dr. Tim McCormick Gynecologic Oncology | Baylor Scott & White

Medicine with a Dose of Humanity, Humor & Kindness

By JANNA ZEPP

Photo by RUSTY SCHRAMM of Baylor Scott & White Healthcare System

Timothy McCormick, DO, of Baylor Scott & White Temple Memorial Hospital’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, lost his grandmother to ovarian cancer. Her loss impacted the family well beyond her death so much that it moved him to become a gynecologic oncologist.

“I heard the stories from my family of her struggles with the disease and treatments,” McCormick says. “I chose the specialty of gynecologic oncology so that I would have the opportunity to care for patients of all ages and walks of life.”

That McCormick is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine is no surprise at all. His compassionate bedside manner and lively personality instantly put patients at ease. He also takes the time to explain a patient’s condition without technical medical jargon. Humanity, humor and kindness are McCormick’s treatment signature.

Gynecologic oncologists are trained in extensive surgical practices as well as delivering chemotherapy. In many circumstances, they see patients, perform surgery, and continue their needed care with chemotherapy and follow up for years. Patients are seen for gynecologic malignancies including cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, vulvar cancer, primary peritoneal cancer, fallopian tube cancer, uterine cancer, as well as difficult gynecologic surgeries.

“The most exciting developments over the last couple of years have been the utilization of immunotherapies for treatment of specific cancers that have led to longer lives with improved quality of life,” McCormick says.

He adds that postmenopausal bleeding is important to have evaluated due to the potential of endometrial cancer.

“Symptoms of persistent bloating, feeling full all the time, pelvic and abdominal pain can be indicators for ovarian cancers as well as a host of other abnormalities that should always be evaluated. Any abnormal lesions of the vulva should be evaluated as soon as they are discovered. All women should have the recommended pap smears of the cervix to help to prevent cervical cancer and/or to diagnose it early for a potential cure,” McCormick explains.

Prevention goes a long way according to McCormick. He says that patients should stay as active as possible and should eat a healthy well-balanced diet.

McCormick credits his early mentor, Tim McGuinness, DO, for teaching him the secret to good medicine.

“He taught us how to care for the person and to not only focus on the disease. This is something that I continue to do today,” McCormick says. “I was blessed to have Dr. Charles Capen here when I first came out of fellowship. He has taught me a multitude of lessons that I am able to carry on in my career.”

And there’s more to the doctor than medicine.

“My wife is Sarah McCormick, DO. She is my best friend, a pediatric hospitalist at McLane’s Children’s Hospital, and probably the smartest person I know,” McCormick says with a grin. “My son Timothy is a Senior at Belton New Tech High School and a drum major for the Marching 100 at Belton High School. I enjoy native gardening and watching birds with my wife. I also enjoy doing just about anything with my son just so we can hang out.”

McCormick says that the most enjoyable thing about living in Central Texas is the people that are here, proving it every day with the way he makes his patients feel when they come to see him.

Michael J. Parker, PA-C

Physician Assistant | Ascension Medical Group

From the Military to Family Medicine

Michael J. Parker, PA-C, is a physician assistant specializing in family medicine at Ascension Medical Group Temple Express Care, a walk-in clinic in Temple. Parker provides primary care for minor illness and injuries, preventive health screenings, routine check-ups and vaccinations.

Parker has served patients in Temple for 22 years. Born in a small town in Louisiana, he enjoys the small-town-feel of Temple and building relationships with his patients. He wants to make a positive difference in their lives.

“I have always found helping others very fulfilling,” Parker says. “I love talking to people. I am dedicated to engaging with each patient, so they know I really care about their well-being as a person, and that they are not just a number.”

Parker became interested in medicine while serving in the military at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska. He was an X-ray tech in the Air Force, and later engaged in nuclear medicine.

“Alaska was an awesome place to live and raise a family,” Parker says. “You get to see and experience a lot of unique things there.”

After his time in the military, he completed his studies at the University of Washington.

Today, Parker is living a happy life in Killeen with his wife, Angela Parker. His sons are now in their 30s, pursuing happy lives of their own. Parker is also the proud grandfather of two girls.

In his free time, Parker enjoys playing golf, including traveling to golf courses around the United States, and spending time with family and friends.

ABOUT ASCENSION: In Texas, Ascension operates Ascension Providence in Waco and Ascension Seton, which includes Dell Children’s Medical Center, the region’s only comprehensive children’s hospital and pediatric Level I trauma center, and Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas, the region’s only Level I trauma center for adults. Ascension Seton partners with Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin and shares a common vision of transforming health care through a focus on quality and value.

Serving Texas for more than 120 years, Ascension is a faith-based health care organization committed to delivering compassionate, personalized care to all, with special attention to persons living in poverty and those most vulnerable. Ascension is one of the leading nonprofit and Catholic health systems in the U.S., operating 2,600 sites of care — including 142 hospitals and more than 40 senior living facilities — in 19 states and the District of Columbia. Visit www.ascension.org and www.dellchildrens.net.

Story and photo submitted by ANN HOWSER of Ascension

ALTRUSA’S TASTE OF THE HOLIDAYS RETURNS TO Ring in the Season

By TONYA WARREN | Photos from the TEMPLE DAILY TELEGRAM archives

Nov. 17 is right around the corner and members of Temple’s Altrusa organization are as busy as elves in preparation for their sole annual fundraiser, Taste of the Holidays. Money raised from this special event helps fund the group’s efforts to promote literacy and other worthwhile projects such as assisting teens in developing leadership skills.

Longtime member, Janna Janes said, “In the modern age of technology and rapid change, literacy and the ability to constantly learn new skills will set students on a path for success and make them successful leaders within their household and beyond.”

Altrusa is a worldwide organization consisting of dedicated executives and business professionals who are service minded towards their communities. Temple’s chapter currently has 88 members so it’s all hands on deck (or sleigh!) as members serve on various committees to make the undertaking a successful event. Attendees will enjoy this festive gathering in the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center amid inspiring décor in colors of red, green, brown, and black to highlight this year’s theme, “Comfort and Joy,” a fitting theme, considering stresses of a global pandemic these last few years.

Models display outfits from local shops during a fashion show at Altrusa’s Taste of the Holidays event in 2018 at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center in Temple. This year’s event is Nov. 17.

Historic Inn on the Creek SALADO

Large and small event spaces available with an array of catering options. Overnight guest accommodations available.

The Venue by Inn on the Creek

Large event space accommodating up to 150 guests for seated and served and up to 220 for ‘mix and mingle’. Accompanied with covered wrap around verandas. Gorgeous three-tiered deck overlooking Salado Creek with ample parking. A/V with built in speakers, Overhead projector and HDMI hook up available.

Village Spa

Soothe, Refresh & Awaken. Behind the glass doors of Village spa awaits a spa experience like no other. We offer luxurious treatments, healing therapies and gracious service. It is our goal to help guide you on your journey towards mindfulness, wellness and relaxation.

Alexander’s Craft Cocktails & Kitchen

Hosts multiple room options: Third floor lounge, up to 24 guests seated plus veranda overlooking Salado Creek. TV available for HDMI connection for presentations, Second floor semi-private event space, 24 guests, TV available for HDMI connection for presentations, Main dining room, up to 36 guests. Custom menus and menu packages available.

The Shed Party Room

“A Unique Tavern Experience!” Casual, fun and light with roll up bar access to the courtyard. Custom menus and menu packages available, Accommodates up to 50 guests. TV available for HDMI connection for presentations. The Shed... Salado’s Top-Rated Restaurant and Bar On TripAdvisor.

The Manor

Private event room accommodations are ideal for meeting space, luncheons, or private dinners for up to 30 guests enjoying Creekside views and veranda. Overhead projector available (connect via HDMI).

Fun, food, and fashion are mainstays of the big event. Members of the menu committee have worked for months in selecting recipes for the meal, and even more impressive is the fact they will be preparing and serving lunch to about 700 plus attendees. Area women will be modeling fashions from Brickwood, Christy’s of Salado, Susan Marie’s and Zooty’s.

Tickets for a prize drawing are sold before and during the event for $25 each and you need not be present to win. Six raffle packages are valued over $1,000 each. Taryn Cox, this year’s event chairwoman, said, “This year we have a stunning Charlie Wharton pendant and necklace, and popular local artist, Stephen King, will donate a piece of his artwork.”

She added that money raised from raffle ticket sales goes directly to high school senior scholarships. Last year, Altrusa awarded 10 $2,000 scholarships to the college or university of the recipient’s choice, not a small thing, considering COVID-19 was straining household budgets.

By supporting this fun and important endeavor, attendees will have the satisfaction of knowing they’re helping improve local literacy and give hope to at-risk youth. Even providing hygiene kits (book included!) have a greater

purpose than just combed hair. Cleanliness promotes a sense of dignity and self-worth, thus making the recipient open to learning and growing from within.

Janes said, “Assisting with resource development for the education of children and the betterment of a community raises the level of productivity and the potential for making miracles happen.” After all, it is a season of miracles.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Location: Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center in Temple

Reservations are $55 each and may be purchased online Oct. 1 to Nov. 10. You may also print the registration form from altrusatemple.org and mail it in with payment. No reservations will be sold day of the event.

Doors open at 10:30 a.m. with lunch beginning at 11:30 a.m. The event ends around 1:15 p.m.

Sylvia Winkler, above, and Janna Janes, below left, are among the Temple Altrusa members helping organize Taste of the Holidays.

Heights, Wellstone Health Partners

in

for

during each unique phase of life. Our offices are conveniently located off Interstate 14 next to Seton Medical Center Harker Heights with additional primary care offices in Belton and Killeen.

Pieces of the Past

HISTORICAL MARKERS HIGHLIGHT HEALTH CARE MOMENTS IN TEMPLE

Story and photos by RHONDA BLACKLOCK

History: A retelling of past events, a recollection of people who shaped our lives today, and a walk down memory lane, reminiscing of times gone by. We’ve all learned about the American Revolution, Civil War, both World Wars, Martin Luther King Jr., and many more historical moments and figures.

What about history closer to home? Many men and women have paved the way in many aspects and industries to develop Temple, Belton and our surrounding Central Texas communities. There are wonderful museums in the area that hold fascinating artifacts and tell the local stories, but have you ever been driving down a street and noticed those black markers with writing on them? Have you ever taken the time to get out and read them?

The Texas Historical Commission does a fantastic job memorializing people and events at

geographical points to honor our past.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when social distancing was necessary, I found my sanity in my car, with a Texas Roadside Historical Marker guidebook and a map. I searched for these markers, and my curiosity for local history blossomed. I wanted to stand where our forefathers stood. I wanted to see the old school houses, old general mercantile, learn about where school teachers and local bankers and farmers were born, raised and became the predecessors for many of us today.

Although these markers stand in many places, most motorists will not notice while traveling to and from work, school or while out running errands. If you’re ever wondering what you can do today, or what interesting things you can take your kids to see, I encourage you to pack a picnic, grab your favorite beverage, and turn on some good tunes. Get out and explore your community and learn a little about our past.

There are several ways to find historical markers. One is to look out your vehicle window, especially toward significant historical buildings. But if you don’t drive past any, the adventure ends prematurely. That is when Why Stop? A Guide to Texas Roadside Historical Markers edited by Betty Dooley Awbrey and Stuart Awbrey with the Texas Historical Commission comes in handy. The pages are filled with thousands of markers from across the state, directions to find them, and an engraved description of each.

There isn’t enough room to fit 16,000+ markers, so you may stumble upon one that isn’t in the book, but it is a great starting point. You can download the Texas Historical Marker Guide, developed by Gregory Moore, on your smartphone. The app can be used without internet connection, you can browse by city or county, use it with your phone’s location services and keep track of all the markers you visit.

A recent trip led me to Santa Fe Hospital, at 600 S. 25th St. in Temple. Established in 1891, it served employees of the Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Railroad Company. Dr. Arthur Carroll Scott accepted the chief surgeon appointment at Santa Fe Hospital in 1892. The historical marker is located on the south side of the main entrance, near the flag pole.

While there, I decided to locate other historical markers for our community’s health care founders. Baylor Scott & White stands out among the rest. As you drive by the Temple hospital’s front entrance,

you can see a row of eight historical markers offering a quick overview of the founders, Dr. Scott and his partner, Dr. Raleigh R. White. There are also markers dedicated to the Scott & White School of Nursing, and Wilma Carlton, first superintendent of the Nursing Program. Thanks in part to her, our area is known for its enriched and exceptional nursing program.

After you learn about the founders of the most well-known hospital in our area, take a drive over to Dr. Scott’s little cabin, located close to Avenue R, near the Baylor Scott & White Dermatology Clinic. The replica stands in a beautiful spot, and its history won’t disappoint.

At 509 S. Ninth St., you will find the Cora Anderson Building. It recently housed a facility for the Community Health Department Clinic. Before that, it was the Cora Anderson Negro Hospital where the Black community received health care before desegregation. The historical marker out front shares the history of this widely unknown place.

At 1717 E. Avenue J, standing in front of the former Meredith-Dunbar Elementary School, a historical marker honors Dr. Thomas Edison Nixon, who committed to serving his community in a time when health care for the African American community was limited.

History resonates all around us. Keep it alive and don’t let these markers pass you by. Stop and give them a read, you never know what historical journey it will take you on.

Art of Dance Salado

STUDIO OFFERS HIGH-QUALITY INSTRUCTION FOR ALL AGES

By RACHEL STRICKLAND | Photos courtesy of ART OF DANCE SALADO

It should come as no surprise that a town as artistically inclined as Salado has its own dance studio. Located on North Stagecoach Road, Art of Dance Salado is, according to their website, “a boutique dance studio that is dedicated to teaching artistic expression and wellness through movement.”

Heather Manuka, owner and director of Art of Dance, has been teaching and choreographing classical dance for over 25 years. She’s loved dancing ever since she can remember, but her formal training began when she was 11. She began with a heavy focus on tap before branching out to other dance genres. At age 14, she began teaching and choreographing. When she was 18, she was awarded a scholarship to attend the Performing Arts Center in Los Angeles, where she had the opportunity to learn from award-winning dance artists. Manuka has also been a member of the Texas Association Teachers of Dancing since 2015, and she joined the core staff judging staff for Crowd Pleasers Dance Competition in 2018.

For the past 25 years, Manuka has worked with dance studios and schools across the country, but she decided to take a break in 2018 to spend time with her family. In June 2022, she opened Art of Dance. Manuka said she was surprised that a community as artistic as Salado didn’t have a dance studio already.

Art of Dance offers all types of classical dance classes, including ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary musical theater. It also has some dance fitness and wellness classes, including Barre and highintensity dance, as well as a Gentle Movers class for more mature adults.

“We kind of consider ourselves

a boutique dance studio,” Manuka said. “It’s not about just one more recreational activity or competitive team for kids. We’re focused on highquality instruction and really nurturing the creative aspect of dance.”

They intentionally keep the classes small so that everyone gets a personalized dance experience.

“We really focus on the quality of instruction, even with our Creative Movement and Little Beginner classes,” Manuka said. “Every student is going to get highest level of attention and dance education.”

A problem that Manuka sees in many other dance studios is that they often focus too heavily on the students involved in competitions, which is why Art of Dance is not a competitive studio. “We’re a dance studio,” she said. “So, our focus is the art of dance and helping kids and adults just find that creative side while getting really great technique.”

Dance is more than just another activity that’s good for the body — it’s terrific for the mind, too. Manuka said studies have shown that dance is one of the only physical activities that connects all parts of the brain, which is why the teachers at Art of Dance focus on the brain-body connection.

There are incredible benefits from dance — not only does the music and movement make you feel good because of the endorphin and dopamine rush, but there are longlasting benefits, such as a reduction in anxiety and depression.

“[Dancers are] getting physical, mental, and emotional benefits from dance,” Manuka said. “And then creatively, they’re getting to explore this whole fun world of moving their bodies to music.”

She said dance is important for kids

who are still honing their fine motor skills, as well as aging adults who are struggling with memory or balance issues, because it helps restore neuron connections. “Dance is the only proven body and brain activity that helps prevent dementia because it activates cross-brain activities.”

One of Manuka’s goals is to bring dance back to the forefront of people’s lives. She said it’s been neglected in our culture and is no longer part of the U.S. education system. She laments that in every other culture in the world, there’s some type of social dancing, which is important for human development.

“As soon as babies hear music — they start moving,” she said. “And it’s kind of intrinsic at all of us, so really, the benefits are so great for any age.”

At Art of Dance, their goal is to ensure that “every dancer, whether they’re 2 years old or 95, is getting a personalized experience and that they’re coming to dance because it’s benefiting them. They’re not just another number at the studio.”

IF YOU GO

Art of Dance: 677 N. Stagecoach Road, Suite B, Salado 254-233-7191 artofdancesalado.com

YOU’RE NOT A PATIENT

When to See an Oncologist

Most of us visit our primary care physician yearly for “the basics” to check in regarding medications, lab work and any tests we need to complete based on our age and medical history.

Once the cancer word is mentioned, fear takes hold and the patient can become relentless in asking questions that the referring physician is simply unable to answer. Many patients will not ask for speculation or predictions out of fear of hearing dreaded news — others will. In an effort to avoid this trap, the referring physician’s intentional vagueness is understandable; on the contrary this gives the oncologist the latitude to craft a more positive and factually based discussion. However, the suspicion of cancer having been raised, it’s essential that prompt arrangements be made for seeing that oncologist.

An individual will often see an oncologist when the primary care physician suspects that the patient has cancer. A primary care physician may

use different diagnostic tests and procedures to diagnose a patient. CT scans and an MRI, as well as blood tests, can be used to confirm the diagnosis. If the tests reveal signs of cancer, the primary care doctor may recommend that the patient visits an oncologist.

You will likely be referred to an oncologist if your doctor suspects that you have the disease. Your primary care physician may carry out tests to determine if you might have cancer. If there are any signs of cancer, your doctor may recommend visiting an oncologist as soon as possible. This may be for further testing and treatment. You should expect to work with a group of health care providers while receiving treatment.

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

Iconic Character Actor

RIP TORN, KNOWN FOR ROLES LIKE AGENT ZED, WAS FROM TEMPLE

By JANNA ZEPP | Photos from THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Agent Zed, leader of the secret organization monitoring intergalactic alien activity on and around Earth, was from Temple. Rip Torn, the actor who portrayed the character in the film, Men In Black, was a Central Texan whose acting career spanned more than 60 years.

Elmore Rual Torn Jr. was born on Feb. 6, 1931, in Temple, the son of Elmore Rual “Tiger” Torn Sr. and Thelma Mary Spacek Torn. The senior Elmore was an agriculturalist and economist who promoted eating of black-eyed peas, particularly as a “good luck” custom on New Year’s Day in Texas. Thelma was an aunt of actress Sissy Spacek of Quitman in East Texas.

Torn went into entertainment with a name that many assumed was a corny, ill-conceived stage name. For a while he carried his passport with him to show skeptics that his name really was Elmore Rual Torn Jr. and told them that Rip was a long-standing nickname for the men in his family.

“If anything, my name has made me work harder,” he told the New York Times. “Some people just seem to take instant umbrage at it.”

Torn was a member of the Texas A&M University Corps of Cadets, where he studied with aspirations of becoming a farmer. Instead, he graduated from the University of Texas where he studied acting under Shakespeare professor B. Iden Payne and was a member of the Alpha Nu chapter of the Sigma Chi fraternity. After graduation, he served in the military police in the U.S. Army. He was a veteran of the Korean War.

Torn had a prolific filmography, was involved in many television shows and series, music videos, commercials, and work on Broadway. But misbehavior and controversy pock-marked his career, in spite of his apparent talent and many industry awards.

Torn showed great range in his career but with a crooked grin, gruff voice and devilish glint in his eyes, he was especially well-suited to playing bad boys and unpredictable characters.

“I think most actors are shy. I really do. The greatest actors can disappear. I had friends call me the Blend-In Man,” Torn said.

While he might have blended in his theatrical roles, he was a standout in his personal life. An outspoken, pro-civil rights activist since the 1950s, he attended a frank and emotional 1963 meeting with Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy about the country’s treatment of Black Americans.

"I sent away for my FBI file a few years ago and it had me listed along with James Baldwin, Harry Belafonte, Lena Horne — and at the end of a long list of characters it said Rip Torn — Actor. And at the top it said, ‘Prominent Negroes Meeting With The Attorney General’,” he said, laughing.

When asked if he was blacklisted, Torn replied, “I wouldn’t want to

dignify it with the word ‘blacklisted.’ I say ‘graylisted.’ I’d always get a role, and then they’d call me up and tell me in laborious terms that they couldn’t hire me after all. I went from doing mainstream films to awful off-offBroadway stuff. This went on for about 16 years.”

Torn married three times and had six children and four grandchildren. His wives included actresses Ann Wedgeworth and Geraldine Page. Torn married actress Amy Wright in 1989, the union lasting until his 2019 death due to complications from Alzheimer’s.

“If you're lucky enough to have a pretty girl love you and share herself and sleep with you, make that your secret. The best way to spoil love is by talking to too many people about it,” Torn said.

Appearing as an interview subject in Studs Terkel’s 1974 oral-history book Working, Torn confessed, “I have certain flaws in my make-up. Something called irascibility. I get angry easily. I get saddened by things easily.”

Torn bore that statement out in his occasional erratic behavior at work. While filming Maidstone in 1968, Torn hit director and star Norman Mailer in the head with a hammer. With the cameras rolling, Mailer bit Torn’s ear and they wrestled to the ground. The fight continued until it was broken up by cast and crew members. The fight is featured in the film. Although the scene may have been planned by Torn, the blood shed by both actors was real, and Torn reportedly hated Mailer’s direction. “It was kind of an awesome brawl,” Torn said, “but I got hurt much worse than he did.”

In 1994, Torn filed a defamation lawsuit against Dennis Hopper over a story Hopper told on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Hopper claimed that Torn pulled a knife on him during

pre-production of the 1969 film Easy Rider. According to Hopper, Torn was originally cast, but was replaced with Jack Nicholson after the incident. Torn claimed in his lawsuit that Hopper pulled the knife on him. A trial court judge ruled in Torn’s favor and Hopper was ordered to pay $475,000 in compensatory damages, but denied Torn’s request for punitive damages, ruling Hopper had not acted with malice. Hopper appealed. On April 1, 1998, a California appellate court upheld the ruling for compensatory damages, and reversed the ruling for the punitive damages, requiring Hopper to pay another $475,000.

Torn said he was haunted for 25 years by Hopper’s perpetual rumor that he walked out on Easy Rider. “I already had a theater contract signed, and if they’d got the movie together in the right time frame, I’d have been happy to do it. I didn’t turn it down. I didn’t walk away, and I’ve never understood, given the great success the movie had, why it was necessary to scapegoat me. My lawyer keeps saying, ‘I just can’t understand why Hopper’s had it in for you.’ The whole thing did cripple my

career, there’s no doubt about it. I’ve spent 25 years outliving this rumor that I always quit. It still comes up.”

After mourning the death of his longtime spouse Page in 1987, Torn underwent a career transformation in the early 1990s, thanks to films like Defending Your Life (1991). The Albert Brooks comedy, which cast him as a no-nonsense, larger-than-life defense attorney for the recently deceased, led to a long string of film and television comedies for Torn. The best of these was The Larry Sanders Show, a scathing satire of talk shows and the television industry as a whole, with Garry Shandling as the neurotic titular host of a popular late-night show and Torn as his bullish producer.

Torn said he went into acting to use his sometimes-erratic emotions to his benefit.

“Rip has an unabashed masculine drive. You can’t act that,” said playwright and fellow Texan Horton Foote, who cast Torn in The Young Man From Atlanta.

Foote certainly was right about that drive. What else would you expect from a farm boy from Temple?

Finding a Vocation

CAREER & TECH CLASSES PREPARE KIDS FOR FUTURE

You may have seen social media posts wondering why students in high school are not taught “real life” skills like we once were in the vocational courses offered when we were in high school. While it is true that most no longer have the traditional vocational courses we remember, high schools today offer a more specific, in-depth Career and Technology Education. Today’s CTE courses provide students the opportunity to learn the real-world skills necessary for success in a variety of fields after graduation.

JOHNA UNDERWOOD

Just as our communities encompass a wide variety of careers, so too do our high schools offer a variety of CTE programs. These courses are developed using labor market information for high wage, high skill, in-demand job opportunities. For example, many schools in Central Texas offer CTE programs in agriculture, food, and natural resources; health science; architecture and construction; and law and public service. Each district in our area may also offer additional CTE programs of study based on their communities’ labor market analysis.

When students enter middle or high school, they can begin their CTE path in courses that are sequenced and aligned with specific academic and technical knowledge and skills in growing career fields. As students move through the program, they continue to develop their abilities in these fields through a variety of classes. Students may even have the chance to participate in practicum courses, which are like internships.

Depending on the program of study and courses taken, students may graduate with an endorsement, may receive industry-level certifications, and/or may have courses that count toward an apprenticeship in their field of study. Additionally, through dual-credit courses, taken for both high school and college credit, students may graduate high school with an associate’s degree. This alignment between the career opportunities in the community and the CTE programs offered at our schools allows students to smoothly transition to an apprenticeship, trade school, college or university, or directly into the workforce after graduation.

For parents and students, all of the various possibilities might feel a bit overwhelming. So, how do parents and students take advantage of these CTE programs? A good first step would be to talk with your student’s school counselors. Not only will they be able to explain the variety of options available at your child’s school, they can also help your student find a program of study that suits their individual goals.

Students can change their pathway early in their high school years, but because courses are designed to deepen students’ knowledge and skills over time, it is best if they find a program of study and stick with it. Each CTE program of study offers students entry into a wide variety of future college and career choices, opening doors to many possibilities.

Even if you’re not a parent of a middle or high school student, members of our community can become CTE partners with their local schools. High schools with CTE courses have advisory committees and would likely welcome subject matter expertise and input. Additionally, the Texas Education Agency regularly facilitates reviews of course standards. Consider volunteering to be on a committee to review the standards to ensure our students are learning necessary industry-specific knowledge and skills.

While we may have moved away from traditional vocational classes, our local schools are continually seeking to provide our students with opportunities to fulfill their own goals, teaching them the new real-world knowledge and skills they will need to become the next generation of industry leaders in our communities.

Johna Underwood teaches English at Gatesville High School.

Each CTE program of study offers students entry into a wide variety of future college and career choices, opening doors to many possibilities.

Mum’s the Word

WHAT ARE THOSE BIG OL’ FLOWERS GIRLS WEAR AT THE HIGH SCHOOL HOMECOMING FOOTBALL GAME?

By JANNA ZEPP

In our August & September issue, I mentioned the high school/college football homecoming mum phenomenon that’s evidently a Texas thing (New Mexico and Oklahoma do it too). Sure enough, one of my gal pals, Julie, who, bless her heart, is not from Texas, shot a text message about ‘em out to our squad of four friends, and the message thread was just too good not to publish for all y’all. Be warned: all of us are Generation X, so we spell out our words and text in complete sentences.

Julie wrote: “I worked today selling homecoming mums for a fundraiser at Kennedy’s school. While I've seen these elaborate ‘things’ at (a craft store) before, I've never known what they are. We never had anything like this up north, so I don't really understand it. I got roped into selling them, but I don't really get it. What are they FOR? I'd love to hear your take on this Texas tradition.”

Our resident super-Texan (other than myself, of course), Kris, wrote: “Mums are a cheap flower that give you a lot of bang for your buck. We, at Fairfield High School, have the school colors of maroon and gold, therefore we have mums in those colors to use as bases. We also use white, but usually only old ladies wear the white ones. They are used to show school spirit during Homecoming Week; at least that is how it started out.

“When I was in school, it was the gauge you used to measure the love your boyfriend had for you,” she continued. “The bigger and gaudier your mum was, the more he loved you. I do believe it was during the 1980s when mums started getting out of hand.

“I know one girl who had a triple mum: 3 HUGE maroon mums, pipe cleaner F H S letters glued on top of them, covered in net (helps keep the petals from dropping) and about 20 glitter-lettered ribbons hanging from the bottom of it, conveying messages from ‘GO EAGLES,’ ‘HOMECOMING 1980,’ ‘SENIOR 1981,’ ‘FLAG CORPS,’ ‘BAND,’ ‘RODEO CLUB,’ and the ever important, ‘JOHN LOVES BECKY,’ plus love knot ribbons, braided ribbons, ribbons with tiny gold footballs, tiny cow bells, tiny football helmets, horseshoes; if they made it into a plastic charm, it was dangling from that mum. The ribbons hung to the top of her boots. I, being the sweetheart I am, told her she looked like a @#*&$% bush, and to take that ugly @#*&$% thing off before we hit the field for halftime (I was Flag Corps Captain).

“When McKenna was in high school, mums went all high tech with tiny battery powered lights that illuminated your mum. Ours in the 1980s ranged in price from about $15-$50. I think I paid around $120 for the one Austin got Emily his senior year, and it isn't unheard of for them to go for $200 a pop now a days.”

Jennifer wrote: “I've MADE mums that cost $250 in materials alone — that was 13 years ago!

“Mums are a way for people to show their importance in today's high school society — not even love of a boyfriend/girlfriend anymore. Parents give them to their kids, friend to friend, significant other to significant other — whatever.

“Our district still emphasizes the white mums, but then again, our colors are Columbia blue, red and white. They're just outlandish these days with stuffed animals and junk all over them; LED lights (are) in the flowers and braided into the hanging ribbons.”

“Oh…and you have to save the mums for all eternity afterward,” I added. “You keep ‘em hung up in your bedroom until they completely fall apart, or the moths eat ‘em.”

Julie responded: “Thank you for filling me in on these. I knew you gals would have better insight into these things than I ever could. I saw them done in north Texas as well as here, but nowhere else so I think this is just a Texas thing.

“Because this is the first year they are being done at Kennedy’s school (at least since the last 5 years) some of the kids had the same question, ‘What are they FOR?’ The mums we are making use a fake silk flower mum (you can choose what size and single or double) and ribbons and the ‘basic’ trinket package. The base mum is $45 which I'm told is a steal.

“I am curious, why chrysanthemums, though? I have always associated mums with funerals. Every family funeral I've ever been to I've come home with pots of chrysanthemums.”

Kris answered: “‘Cause they are cheap to buy fresh, they are in season and they last a long time out of water. When this first started, there weren’t any silk mums.”

And that’s where the conversation ended. I must interject here that I am appalled that a TEXAS high school would curtail the mum tradition. An entire era of Texas high school students went without mums. I think that’s shameful.

But then, Julie lives in Houston. I’m just glad the school

administration and parents saw the light before it was too late.

Last year, Kate (my daughter) and I made HOCO mums for ourselves and Kate’s twin sister, Lisa. Kate is in the Floral Design program at Salado High School. Because Lisa leans to the Goth side of fashion, we made her a Goth mum with a skull and spider, instead of the normal mum gee-gaws such as a football or an eagle mascot. Salado’s colors are, of course, red and white with the occasional black accents, so we went black and red with white accents. It was so much fun to work with my daughters on these corsages, and we’re looking forward to doing it again this year. I’ll miss it when they graduate in 2024, but until then…GO EAGLES!

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Explore a Local Legend

MARLIN’S HOT MINERAL WATER HAS HEALING BENEFITS

By RACHEL STRICKLAND | Photos courtesy of the MARLIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

What do some of the most famous European bath houses and Marlin, Texas, have in common? This might seem like a strange comparison, but Marlin, also known as the Hot Mineral Water City of Texas, has its very own mineral hot spring, and it’s been a destination spot for over a century.

According to Bryan LeMeilleur, director of Tourism and Marketing for Marlin, the city financed the drilling of three wells back in 1893. The part they weren’t expecting was the off-putting smell and taste that the water from the spring had, and no one wanted to drink it. In 1895, the city paid to have the water analyzed, and the results were surprising. The mineral content in the water was incredibly high, and it was on the same level as some bath houses in Europe. Thus began Marlin’s nearly 50-year journey into the homeopathic healthcare industry.

LeMeilleur notes that after World War II, there were a lot of advancements in medicine, and people were not as interested in natural cures anymore. Nevertheless, Marlin still had some locals that continued to use the water in various ways to heal their ailments, including drinking it, using it topically, and extracting the mineral content to use in capsule form.

Even as medical advancements left homeopathy behind, Marlin’s mineral water continued to attract people from all over the world — some of them famous. Between 1911 and 1918, major league baseball team, the New York Giants, traveled to Marlin for spring training. The manager of the Giants at the time said that Marlin was a great place for his team’s training, not only because of its remote locale, but also for the

curative properties that the mineral water had for his injured players.

According to LeMeilleur, of the three wellheads that exist, only one of them continues to flow freely, and it’s located right next to the Marlin Chamber of Commerce on Coleman Street. The water comes up from the ground, into the wellhead, and out of four spigots where you can fill up a cup — or a 50-gallon tank — whatever

you want to take home with you.

While the mineral water is not as popular as it once was, LeMeilleur said that there are still people who believe in the healing properties of the water, and they regularly visit Marlin. He said a lot of the visitors are people who find out about the mineral springs because it’s a unique, historic destination that is free. They also have a lot of visitors that are loyal locals who come to fill up a couple jugs of the water every month.

“You can drink it. It’s not terrible for you,” LeMeilleur said of the water, even though the smell and taste make it difficult to consume. He added that one of the minerals in the water works well as a laxative, and so some people take a shot of it daily to stay regular. But most people use the water topically. People who have a skin malady, such as a scar or eczema, will wet a rag with the mineral water and let it soak into their skin. “And it works,” LeMeilleur said. “I’m not gonna lie. I’ve tried it.”

Even in the 21st century, there is still a market for the healing properties of the mineral water. And according to LeMeilleur, there are people who want to give new life to the bath house industry in Marlin, but

the main roadblock is money.

“It would take some serious money to make that happen,” he said. “But there could be a bath industry here again if somebody was willing to put the time and effort into it.”

In fact, the perfect place for a revamped bath house already exists in Marlin, and it’s connected to the abandoned Falls Hotel, which was the eighth hotel built by Conrad Hilton in 1929. It’s connected to the Marlin Sanitarium Bath House via an underground tunnel.

“There are a lot of secrets in that hotel,” LeMeilleur said. “There are still fixtures in the bathrooms that are over there that are a hundred years old. And if you look in the downstairs, there’s a baby grand piano and a whole foyer just full of furniture.”

He believes that the hotel and the

bath house could really be something great for Marlin if the right person came along and was willing to invest their time and money into it.

If you decide to check out the mineral water of Marlin, be sure to bring a clean container to fill with water. LeMeilleur warns that if you intend on consuming the water to do so within a few weeks because it’s not filtered and has organisms in it that could be harmful if left to the elements too long. Whether you’re a curious skeptic or you’ve got a skin ailment that could benefit from an unconventional cure, a visit to the Hot Mineral Water City of Texas just might need be your next stop.

IF YOU GO Marlin Hot Mineral Water 207 Coleman St., Marlin

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Czech Out Central Texas

MORAVIAN, BOHEMIAN CULTURE, ETHNICITY

By JANNA ZEPP Photos from TEX APPEAL archives

Central Texas is full of Czechs — or Czexans — a fact all of which we should already be aware. In fact, we have so many, that I need to expand beyond Bell County just to do justice to the telling of this tale.

Czech diaspora to Texas began after the revolutions of 1848 changed the political climate in Central Europe, and after a brief interruption during the U.S. Civil War, continued until World War I. Concentrated in Central Texas, Czech Texans have preserved their identity through the Painted Churches of Texas, traditional Czech events, and bakeries specializing in Czech pastries.

Czechs first settled in Texas, traveling from Bohemia, Moravia and Austrian Silesia. Czech settlers usually identified themselves as Austrian, German, Bohemian, Slovak or Moravian. Czech immigration to Texas began as early as the 1820s, but most immigrants made the journey as individuals. Large-scale and family immigration began with Rev. Josef

Once settled in Texas, Bergman wrote letters to families in Europe, encouraging them to come to Texas.

ALIVE AND VERY TEXAN

Czech settlement was driven by the availability of land in Texas, and you can see it personally by driving north on Interstate 35 toward Dallas.

West is a predominantly ethnic Czech town between Waco and Hillsboro, and it’s most people’s first taste of what it means to be a Czexan…and I do mean taste. West is home to the Czech Stop and the Little Czech Bakery. If you’ve never had a kolache or klobasnik, the bakery is a good place to start.

I’m from Texas, but I have to confess that I really don’t know that much about our Texas-Czech culture. A late friend of mine, Ginger, lived in Bristol, just outside Ennis, and she was married to a Czech whose last name is Mensik. It’s through Ginger that I learned some things about our Texas Czechs. For starters, Czechs have an extremely close-knit family unit, and they are intimately tied to the land on which they live. Most Texas Czechs are descended from Moravian immigrants, and they still speak Czech in the Moravian dialect, rather than the Bohemian dialect other Czech Americans use.

Arnost Bergman, described as the father of Czech immigration to Texas by some sources, and his family in 1850.

Marionettes in traditional Czech costumes are part of the displays at the Czech Heritage Museum & Genealogy Center in Temple. Visitors can get a taste of Czech culture and history in Central Texas.

Czech communities stretch from Williamson County, through Bell, McLennan, Hill, Kaufman and Ellis counties. There are concentrations of Czech towns on the Texas Coastal Prairie too, mostly in Wharton, Fort Bend and Victoria. One of our Central Texas Czech communities is right here in Bell County. Zabcikville is at the intersection of FM 2269 and 437, 10 miles east of Temple and has a population of 40.

Ennis isn’t a large town, but it is on a particular weekend in May. The Annual National Polka Festival is held in Ennis, and the town gets full of Texas Czechs getting their “Whoopie John” on. There’s a fraternal hall there: the Sokol Activity Center. “Sokol” is the Czech word for “falcon.” The parking lot is usually full on that weekend and the hall is packed with people in traditional Czech clothing.

I looked up the Sokol Activity Center on the Internet, and this is how it was described on the National Polka Festival website: “With a century of continuous service to the Ennis community and its guests, the 30,000 square foot Sokol Activity Center located two miles east of downtown Ennis on Highway 34 carries on a deeply rooted tradition that started in 1908. A proud group of immigrants

banded together to preserve the heritage brought from their homeland while embracing American patriotism and the athleticism synonymous with Sokol.”

I’m not sure which Czechs are prouder of: being Czech or being American. Add to that being Texan, and that’s a whole lot of national pride rolled into one culture.

An example of this Texas-Czech pride is in their fraternal organizations. Fraternal orders are a very big deal with Texas Czechs. If you happen to see a building with SPJST on it, that’s an acronym for “Slovanska podporujici jenota statu Texas” which just gave my spell-check program fits. In English, that’s the “Slavic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas.” Organizations such as the SPJST grew out of a national Czech fraternal order, but split off to become a Texas institution. More Texas pride at play, I imagine. A local friend of mine, Bennet, once told me what the acronym actually spells out in English, but it’s not something to repeat in polite company, though I laughed harder than was appropriate when he told me.

I mentioned the National Polka Festival earlier. That’s not the only Czech-specific festival in Texas. We also have Czech Fest in Rosenberg, Czhilispiel in Flatonia and WestFest in West. I’ve not been to any of them, but after having seen the turnout at the National Polka Festival in Ennis, I want to. So, I’m brushing up on my Czech. I know that “Jak se máš?” means “How are you?” after seeing it about a million times on car bumper stickers up and down I-35. I’ve learned some other basic words and phrases too, such as “prosím” and “děkuji,” which are “please” and “thank you.”

Now I just need to learn how to say them.

As for Bohemian Czechs in Texas, my best friend is one. She moved to Texas nearly 40 years ago from Minnesota. Becky is actually Bohemian Czech and German. What I know of the Bohemians, I know from her.

Whether Moravian or Bohemian, one thing I definitely know is that they are fabulous cooks. For most Texans, our first encounter with Texas Czech culture is with the iconic kolache.

Please note: a kolache is fruitfilled. Klobasniky are not but do have sausage in them, including egg, cheese, and the occasional jalapeno.

I found this recipe that’s supposed to be an authentic Czech recipe, and I’m inclined to believe it since the instructions say that they take most of a day to make.

KLOBASNIKY

This is the old-fashioned way; takes 5-7 hours. Note: Do not skimp on the quality of sausage used.

INGREDIENTS

2 packages dry yeast

1/2 cup lukewarm water

2 cups lukewarm milk

1/2 cup sugar

1 small can evaporated milk (5.33 oz =approximately 2/3 cup)

About 8 cups flour

5 egg yolks

1/3 cup melted butter

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 tbsp salt

3 drops lemon extract

2 to 2 1/2 pounds cooked, cool smoked sausage

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in

lukewarm water. Add milk, sugar, evaporated milk, and 4 cups flour. Mix thoroughly until smooth, cover and let rest at least 1 hour in a warm place.

In a separate bowl place egg yolks, melted butter, oil, salt, and lemon extract. Mix with mixer. Add this to first mixture and blend. Add 3 1/2 to 4 cups of flour gradually and mix well using a wooden spoon until smooth. Cover and let rise until double in bulk.

Place a third of the dough at a time on floured board. Sprinkle flour on top of dough and roll out with rolling pin to about 1/3-inch thickness. Cut in squares about 2x2 inches or a little larger. Place cooked, cool sausage pieces on each square and enclose, sealing edges.

Place on greased baking sheet with sealed edge on bottom. Brush lightly with melted butter and let rise until double in size. Bake at 425 deg F until light golden brown, about 10 minutes. Yields 6 dozen.

Some prefer to brush kolaches with evaporated milk or melted butter when they have cooled down slightly after removal from the oven.

I’ll bet one bite will make you say, “Je to vynikající!” (“It is delicious!”)

Photography: Angela Stiz | Model: Courtney Stewart, BSN, RN, Charge Nurse, BSWH Pavilion Surgery Center

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