From the Editor | April/May 2018
Dear Readers,
Spring is here and it’s great to see our azure blue skies and golden sunshine once again. Warmer and longer days are with us now and it’s time to start thinking about all of those projects you want to accomplish for your home and garden.
While planning your new or refreshed yard or garden consider xeriscaping for its beautiful simplicity with textures, low maintenance and water conservation. Any size area can be converted into a creative landscape, Page 28.
Bell County is one of the fastest growing counties in Texas. People from across the United States are moving to Texas in droves and seem to be settling in the “Triangle area” that includes Temple and Killeen. Houses continue to appear on the landscape in South Killeen, West Temple, Belton and Nolanville, Page 32.
Bridge East Temple is a new foundation started by Jeff and Kim White. Last year they purchased a historical bungalow in East Temple. Named The 4-1-1 House, it was the former home of Temple Civil Rights activist Myrtle L. Captain. Their purpose is to create a gathering place for local youths to receive guidance, learn life lessons, and encouragement to follow their dreams, Page 36.
Maria Mendez Reed, creator of Movingwiththemilitary.tv helps active-duty military families turn their temporary houses into homes for free. She is a decorator, renovator and resourceful designer. She has created a backyard space, a living room, and recently a little girl’s dream bedroom. She also offers fun and informational episodes on her website that any family can adapt for their living area, Page 12.
Kacie Beevers, executive officer of the Temple Area Builders Association is busy with the numerous projects she juggles daily. She is membership coordinator, event coordinator and makes sure the office is always running smoothly, Page 14.
Local Christian author Amy K. Rognlie wants you to “Make Haste Slowly,” her newly released novel. She calls her book a cozy mystery that will keep you turning the pages. Hidden between the lines are life lessons that reinforce the meaning of being a good neighbor and friend, Page 27.
Jean Shine of The Shine Team in Harker Heights is more than a Realtor. She is an astute businesswoman, a dedicated mother, wife and grandmother. She is also known for her volunteer service as the Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army for Central Texas; a greeter ready to hug homecoming troops, and the founder of the Friends of the Central Texas Veterans Cemetery, or Wreaths for Vets, Page 50.
Christopher McGilvery, founder and executive director of Give More HUGS is changing the lives of children around the world, one book at a time. His foundation distributes much-needed school supplies, backpacks, and life necessities to communities in five countries, all from his headquarters in Central Texas, Page 56.
The History of West Museum is dedicated to the founding of West, Texas. It portrays its history with authentic artifacts dating back to the early 1800s when the first settlers arrived by covered wagon. Three centuries are on display, including a room that pays homage to the day the town exploded on April 17, 2013, Page 60.
Mother’s Day is coming up so spoil your mom by making her a healthy crust-free quiche from Carey Stites, Page 54.
Every month I meet the most extraordinary people in Bell Count and each person has a story that can touch another’s life. Wherever you are in your busy day, take a break and pour yourself a glass or cup of your favorite beverage and enjoy meeting your neighbors on the pages of the April/May issue of Tex Appeal Magazine.
Catherine Hosman
Tex Appeal Editor
editor@texappealmag.com