Hill Country Culture July 2020

GOOD BONES What's old becomes new again n Revamping the Arcadia Theater n Showcasing family treasures n Dazzling vintage fashion

JULY 2020

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July 2020 Carlina Villalpando

For story ideas:

Publisher

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Louis Amestoy

advertising@txhcculture.com

Managing Editor

For general inquiries:

Nicole Crapps

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Page Designer

@ txhillcountry_culture

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@ Texashillcountryculture

Composing Manager

Jeanette Eastwood Nash Assistant Managing Editor

The Kerrville Daily Times 429 Jefferson St., Kerrville, Texas 78028 www.dailytimes.com Phone: 830-896-7000 | Fax: 830-896-1150

Tom Holden Photographer

Copyright: Hill Country Culture is published

by The Kerrville Daily Times under Southern Newspapers Inc. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without written permission of the publisher. Editorial content does not reflect the opinions of the publisher of this magazine. Editorial and advertising does not constitute advice but is considered informative.

John Doran

Advertising Director

Account Executives Brandon Baldwin Luly Bliss Valerie Tucker

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ON THE COVER

Photo by Tom Holden

Michael Kelliher and Anne Overby have been instrumental in the revival of the Arcadia Theater. Learn more about the project and future plans for the area on Page 14.

EDITOR'S LETTER

Finding value in our past J

uly is the month when we celebrate our country’s birth and our collective American history. Learning from our mistakes and carrying forward traditions has made our beloved country what it is today.

Musing on the origins of the United States had us wondering what other parts of our past could provide value in the modern world.

Looking back often gives much-needed perspective and can inspire future endeavors.

For example, several homeowners in the Hill Country have long admired historic structures. They’ve taken on the peeling paint and deteriorating beams because they saw the beauty underneath. Through their efforts,

many of these fading remnants have been transformed into lovely homes for the next generation.

The same can be said for the old family Jeep, carefully refurbished by Wagonmaster until it gleams with possibility. Or vintage clothing, pulled from local pawn or antique shops to dazzle at a present-day party.

Other parts of our history are more personal — grandma’s recipes can teach us how to make the most of supply shortages, and grandpa’s military honors, arranged in a stunning shadowbox by River’s Edge Gallery, can remind us each day of freedom’s cost.

Lastly, the merit of some traditions, like house calls by the family physician, is that they fuel progress. Seeking that convenience and personal connection

Let’s make Kerr County history.

Our economy needs the sales tax now, more than ever.

has brought us the rise of telemedicine.

It’s important to remember our heritage, but what can be even more exciting is when what is old becomes new again. We hope you’ll enjoy the examples of renewal within these pages and, hopefully, be motivated to pick up both local history and pieces of your own past once again.

Additionally, make sure to peruse the community calendar on Page 34.

Now that the area has started to come back to life following the coronavirus pandemic, we can happily look toward to more fun events in the future.

If you’re interested in keeping up with the magazine online, visit our Instagram page @txhillcountry_culture or our Facebook page at Texas Hill Country Culture.

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Table of Contents 10

ARCADIA REVIVED

Beloved theater gets a facelift to welcome new generations

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HOUSE RENAISSANCE

Kerrville neighborhood undergoes renewal with housing renovation

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HOME AGAIN

Building with decades of history refurbished as a family home

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VINTAGE FASHION

Freshen up your wardrobe with stunning looks from yesteryear

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GET TO KNOW

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SHOWCASE MEMORIES

Owner of East End Market enjoys a fondness for vintage treasures

Kerrville framers bring heirlooms back to life with shadowboxes

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POWER OF PATRIOTISM

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INVENTIVE INGREDIENTS

How the Presidential Fitness Program has evolved to serve modern citizens

Supermarket shortages have chefs reaching for grandma's cookbook

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CONNECT TO THE CURE

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GOING GREEN

The family doctor makes a rebound with the help of video technology

How vegetarian meals can be easy on your waistline and pocketbook

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NEW CLASSIC

Wagonmaster turns old family Jeeps into polished showstoppers

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GO AND DO

Discover exciting events in the Hill Country throughout July

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Magazine Contributors

Joe Herring Jr. Joe Herring Jr. was born in Kerrville and is a Tivy graduate. He is married to a lovely first-grade teacher, Carolyn Herring, who teaches at Tally Elementary School. They have two adult children. He has written for The Kerrville Daily Times since 1994.

Kathy Sears Hall Kathy Sears Hall is a Kerrville native and graduate of Tivy High School. She is a Cooper Institute Personal Trainer and is licensed to teach Pilates and Zumba. She holds an accounting degree from the University of Texas and spent 27 years in the energy industry. She now enjoys being back home and working with her father, husband and staff at The Center for Fitness, a business her mother started over 40 years ago.

Nancy Foster Nancy Foster has contributed to Texas Hill Country Culture since its beginning.

She believes success is measured when readers tell her they’ve found another place to visit and enjoy. Nancy and her husband, Raymond, have lived in Kerrville for nine years. She heads Foster Tourism Marketing, a company that services clients in four states. She also is a writer for a national inflight magazine.

Stacy Whittemore Stacy Whittemore is a health/cooking coach and certified master preserver in the Texas Hill Country. Her cooking blog, wayfaringspoon.com, is dedicated to smaller-sized recipes along with home canning inspiration. Her passion is teaching and sharing the art of home-cooked meals.

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Mia Church

Sandra Lane

Mia Church began her career in media at the Phoenix Newspaper in Boston, Massachusetts. Later, she was part of the team at Boston’s first country music station, WBCS, solidifying country into the northeast culture. She is an internationally published photographer and writer and runs her business, Mia Church Photography. She has two daughters and has lived in the Texas Hill Country for 15 years.

Sandra Lane has a long writing history and has provided writing support for newspapers, trade journals, corporate communications and tech publications. In 2019, she completed and published a book about the life of a former U.S. Congressman from San Antonio. A fourth generation Texan, she holds a B.S. degree in Journalism from the University of North Texas, Denton.

She moved to Kerrville in 2013 from the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

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JULY 2020

Bella Shearhart Bella Shearhart was born and raised in Kerrville and resides there now with her husband, Brad, and daughters, Adelyn, Camille, Elliot and Gillian. Bella began her business, Bella Photography, in early 2012 and now specializes in portraits, birth/ newborn and sunset boudoir sessions.

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FEATURE

THE SHOW GOES ON Arcadia Theater renovation gets finishing touches

By Louis Amestoy Somewhere in the future, when they look at the history of Kerrville, it might be 2020 that’s looked upon as a time when so much happened, and when the city was transformed into a destination place for the arts.

For decades, the Arcadia Theater was one of the focal points of life in downtown Kerrville, bringing people in for vaudeville shows in its early days and then to movies, but it’s now been closed for so long that it’s hard to remember that it was once a viable entertainment venue.

That changes in 2020. Taking the shell of the historic project, the founders of Arcadia Live — a nonprofit group with backing from the city and other philanthropic organizations in Kerrville — aimed to reinvent the space in several ways, including: n Building a deck out of the back of the theater to give a commanding view of Louise Hays Park, and, most importantly, the Guadalupe River.

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n Making a flexible space that wasn’t confined to the seating chart, like so many other performing arts venues. n And being thoughtful enough to imagine a thoroughly modern space that celebrates the historic character of the brick building.

“You get a feeling of its history, because of its size,” said Ann Overby, one of the key drivers of the movement to restore the space. “The front door is so tiny and the entry is so small that most people drive by it don’t know that it’s back there.”

It’s hard to miss now. When completed, the Arcadia Live project will have two marquee signs that tout the theater’s long history — although the theater has been closed since 1988. The front marquee will celebrate the theater’s early history, while the iconic neon sign that was installed in the 1940s is now affixed to the back of the building, but commands a view of those crossing the river into downtown.

Just what will the space be used for?

Well, the opening acts for the grand

opening — expected sometime later this year — will be Americana acts Robert Earl Keen and Cody Canada and The Departed.

Now, the finishing touches are being put on the space, including smoothing out the once sloping floor from the time when it was a movie house, and finishing the deck that overlooks the river. It’s the deck that could help change the way Kerrville views itself — one that celebrates the river.

The new space also gives Kerrville, along with Kerr County, yet another performance space downtown. Just around the corner, of course, is the Cailloux Theater — a gem that would be the envy of many small towns.

However, the planners of Arcadia Live see the two buildings complementing each other.

“I think we’ll have a different kind of music,” Overby said. “We are going to be very respectful of their calendar. I think (the two spaces) will draw even more people to downtown Kerrville.”

OLD HOUSE

YOUR HOME

NEW HOUSE

Neighborhood has renaissance in construction

S

By Sandra Lane ome of the older residential sections of Kerrville seem to attract homebuyers because of the number of mature trees, proximity to the downtown area and diversity in housing styles. There is one problem, however, in that many of these homes, built in the 1960s and even earlier, are in serious disrepair.

Instead of tearing down the homes and clearing the lot, there seems to be a trend in remodeling or gutting the house and installing new materials, fixtures and amenities. This is particularly true in an area defined by Water Street/Jackson Road on the south, Lewis Street on the east, Lake Drive on the north, and the extension of Bluebonnet Drive on the west. This area is sometimes referred to as the northern extension of the Westland Addition.

Some of the homes appear to be in dire condition, and in major cities, they would probably be torn down.

But not here in Kerrville. Creative and imaginative builders and prospective homeowners have envisioned the kind of homes they want arising out of the disrepair.

Remodeling with a vision

The renovation of this Kerrville home is being overseen by Cynthia Lacy with The Faux Show Inc. She believes the area will soon see an influx of modern design and new residents. (Contributed photo) “There will be new doors and windows and new wiring,” she said. “The rock on the front of the house will remain and the overall design on the new home will be a rustic modern look.”

She estimates that the remodeling and reconstruction will be complete in 60 days.

When Lacy purchased the home, there was a second story, but that has been removed. “The owners did not get a permit from the city to build the second story,” she said, “so it was not built to code. This meant we had to remove it.”

One such project is now being overseen by Cynthia Lacy, owner of The Faux Show Inc., a remodeling company.

The remodeled one-story home will have three bedrooms and two baths with approximately 1,350 square feet of floor space.

“We’re gutting the framing to the studs in order to properly insulate the new building materials,” she said.

Lacy said she has been working in remodeling, construction and design for 25 years. Originally from College

Station, she moved to Kerrville in 2011.

“When I first moved here, I worked in Fredericksburg for three years remodeling bed and breakfasts,” she said. “I also remodeled a foreclosed horse farm property.”

Then, Lacy said, she decided to invest her time and money in the Kerrville community.

“This area is in such demand,” she said, “because of nice neighborhoods, and most of the homes are smaller and fit the need for smaller starter homes or for retirees. It also helps that this area is close to the grocery stores.”

She also said there is more diversity here in home styles.

“The houses all look different. There are no cookie-cutter houses as may be found in newer developments,” she said.

There is also a lot of pride of ownership in this neighborhood, she added.

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A new roof, insulation, a fresh coat of paint and updated interior design are just a few of the steps that Heritage Construction & Remodeling took to revitalize a fading home in the Westland area.

(Contributed photos)

BEFORE A Realtor’s viewpoint

One Kerrville Realtor said that there are several reasons why this area is so desirable. “Land prices are so high in Kerr County that it’s difficult to get something affordable,” she said. “This area still has some affordable homes.”

Overall, she said, “People are moving here because the prices are so reasonable compared to real estate in other parts of the country. It also doesn’t have major storm areas.”

That may not be 100% true considering the major storms in Kerrville during the last two weeks in May. Still, compared to other parts of the country, Kerr County has been lucky.

The Realtor also said, “We are seeing a large amount of people coming from out of state. This is a desirable area in which to live because there are homes here priced under $300,000. That’s not available in many areas these days.”

The Ugly Duckling transformed No matter how outdated and undesirable a house may seem to be, skilled remodelers can produce miracles.

That’s what happened when the team at Heritage Construction & Remodeling purchased a home in the Westland area to transform into what now looks like a model home.

The team at Heritage consists of Jim Fullerton, his daughter Tammy Merecka and her husband Trevor Merecka. They took a house built in 1964 that only had two bedrooms and one bath and transformed it into a showplace. The present version has three bedrooms, two baths, and a total of 1,635 square feet.

To begin with, they gutted the structure, then added a metal roof, insulation in the attic, double pane

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AFTER low-E windows, exterior/interior doors, electrical fixtures, plumbing fixtures, energy efficient appliances (dishwasher, gas range and tankless gas water heater) in addition to a new HVAC. The floors in the main living areas were covered with waterproof vinyl plank flooring while the bedroom floors are carpeted. The kitchen features a white subway tile backsplash to coordinate with the quartz countertop and butcher-block island. White shiplap and unique tiles were used on the instant heat electric fireplace wall, the kitchen and the master bathroom. In addition, unique shower and floor tiles were installed in both bathrooms.

Not to forget the outside, a large new deck was added on the back of the house.

In addition, a large workshop/covered porch with electricity was added farther into the backyard in addition to a chicken coop. Needless to say, this house sold quickly in June amid five offers.

Preserving good bones

Few homes are the result of completely new construction.

One of these new homes has come to be known as “The Rooster House.” This house was completed in 2019 and was built on one of the few vacant lots in the area.

A few years ago, there was a home here, but it was destroyed in a propane explosion. The house next door to the west was also damaged, but restored.

This lot was vacant for a few years, but as the demand for homes in this area increased, a new home was built. The present owners are from Arizona.

The front yard is small and has been expertly landscaped with a giant metal rooster in the center of some strategically placed plants. In fact the yard is so beautiful, it has been honored with

Built atop ground leveled by a propane blast, The Rooster House now looks modern and welcoming — an aesthetic that caused the Kerrville Women's Chamber of Commerce to name it the June Yard of the Month.

BEFORE

the designation as the June “Yard of the Month” by the Kerrville Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

Refugees from traffic and overcrowding

For two and a half years, Pamela and Eric Rindahl had been driving from Kyle, located off of the Austin / San Antonio corridor of I-35, to watch their son Matthew play basketball at Schreiner University.

The Rindahls said they had lived on the Austin / San Antonio corridor for 30 years.

“That’s why we’re moving to Kerrville,” Pamela said. “When we first moved to the Kyle area, you knew what city you were in. Now, with the I-35 corridor, you don’t know where you are.

“In the beginning, I didn’t know we were looking to move. One weekend, Eric said, ‘Let’s go look at a house.’” I said, “Why are we looking for a house?”

Eric said, “We drove by this one and she said absolutely not because of the way it looked. So, I went home and drew the concept on CAD and worked with an architect to get the plans done.”

“As we continued driving back and forth to Kerrville to see our son play basketball at Schreiner, the idea of moving here grew on both of us.

Prior to our son playing basketball at Schreiner, we would never have bought that house, but my husband had a vision, and he began working with an architect. When you see the front of the house, that’s my husband’s vision.”

The house was originally built in 1960. As reconstruction began, the framing was torn down to the

AFTER The Rindahl family saw the possibilities in this old Kerrville ranch home for their move from Kyle.

After extensive renovation, the rough canvas has become an architectural beauty. foundation. However, because the City of Kerrville made some changes in their building codes, the Rindahls had to change their plans.

“We needed thicker walls and more insulation,” Eric said. “Because the house had been added onto before, it was easier to start all over from the slab up. It cost more to do it, but we are happy with the results.”

There was also another adjustment to be made. Pamela said, “The house had 7-foot ceilings. Because our son is 6-feet-6-inches tall, we had to raise the roof even higher.”

The completed construction has produced a house with 1,800 square feet, three bedrooms, and 2½ bathrooms.

During the dismantling and reconstruction, Pamela said they were careful to not damage any trees on the lot.

“There is a 95-year-old pecan and an 85-year-old red oak that we wanted to save,” she noted.

As construction progressed, Pamela said she and Eric discovered that they were providing entertainment for the neighborhood.

“We met so many people, and what was really funny is that our neighbors didn’t know each other,” she said.

“By reconstructing this home, we’ve created a community.”

She said that now at 6:30 p.m. each Friday, the neighbors gather on the Rindahls’ new driveway.

“We started with a house and slowly it’s turning into a home and a community. This neighborhood is different from when we moved in. In reconstructing this home, we’ve helped people come out and talk to their neighbors.”

The Rindahls mentioned other things they like about the Kerrville area.

“We like being able to walk or ride the river trail, and we bought a kayak,” Pamela said. “We can also walk to the grocery store.”

She also said Kerrville offers activities and restaurants that Kyle doesn’t offer.

“We’re looking forward to the changes at the Arcadia Theater and hoping to see the revitalization of downtown Kerrville. We want to support the events in the city.”

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YOUR HOME

HOME AGAIN

The new owners of the house at 1001 Jefferson St., Jacie and Dustin Coon, examine photos of the structure's early days.

Filled with years of history, an iconic Kerrville building is reborn as a family home

Story by Joe Herring Jr. Photos by Tom Holden Dustin and Jacie Coon have done something remarkable: taking a very old house “with good bones” and renovating it to make a home for themselves and their three sons.

Tackling such a project takes both persistence and grace, but their project had an added dimension: They were renovating an iconic historic Kerrville home, on a busy street, in full view of the entire community — a project with 10,000 sidewalk superintendents.

The house, at 1001 Jefferson St., was built in 1890, and is known locally as the Comparette House. Many remember it as the home of several restaurants, including The Yellow Ribbon and later Joe’s Jefferson Street Café. Because it held these popular eateries, many folks remember being inside the building when it was a public place.

The Coon family did something almost impossible: They took a structure that was in poor shape and that had been a commercial building, and returned it to its original purpose.

1900s

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They took an old, worn-out building and made it a home.

In 1890, Samuel and Laura Smith built the two-story Victorian house in the Tivy Addition on land originally owned by Capt. Joseph A. Tivy. The Smiths were originally from Louisiana, and he was from a long line of newspaper publishers. At 21 years old, Samuel owned his first newspaper, the Louisiana Democrat, published in Alexandria, Louisiana. In 1853, the couple moved to Texas, to a town downriver from us, where he founded the Gonzales Inquirer, which is still being

found work with the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, working with them “until health forced him to seek a change of climate.” He found his way to Kerrville, and “his first livelihood was as the town’s first professional barber.”

His barbering days were few, though.

In 1895 “Mr. Comparette entered the telephone business with the late Capt.

Charles Schreiner.”

The Kerrville Telephone Company provided the first telephone service in Kerrville, Fredericksburg, Junction, Llano and Rocksprings.

After Loula passed away in 1925, Dale and his second wife, Beatrice, continued to live in the house at the corner of Tivy and Jefferson. His heirs continued ownership of the house until 1977.

published today. In 1887, the Smith family moved to Kerrville, where he published the Kerrville News.

In 1890, when Samuel and Laura Smith built their home, they were not young. He was 67; she was about a decade younger. A two-story house, with bedrooms on the second floor, was not common here, and they didn’t live in the house very long. They sold their newspaper not long after building the house and eventually moved to San Antonio.

2016

Dr. R.H. P. Wright and his wife, Beatrice, bought the house in 1896 – and they needed a large house. They had six daughters and two sons. One of their daughters, Fay, married a lawyer from Junction named Coke Stevenson, and later served as First Lady of Texas when Stevenson became governor.

The next couple who owned the house, Dale and Loula Comparette, purchased it in 1905. Dale had a varied career. He was born in Ohio,

In May, 1977, the house became a restaurant – The Yellow Ribbon. The first story I found mentioned Bonnie Summers, D.J. MacDonald and “Joseph Banks, of New York, is the chef.” At first it was open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; later it was also open for dinner. In 1986, Becky Priour and Joe Sanders opened Joe’s Jefferson Street Café in the old house, and it was very successful for many years. Many people first saw the inside rooms of the Comparette House during its years as a restaurant site, which ended in 2009.

2020

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While making sure to maintain the structure's "good bones," the Coon family updated the interior of the former Jefferson Street Café to reflect a sense of modern elegance.

From 2009 until 2016, the building was vacant, and during that time, many residents of Kerrville watched as the building slowly deteriorated.

Then, thankfully, Dustin and Jacie Coon stepped up and purchased the historic house.

Dustin, who is a pastor at the Kerrville Apostolic Church, which is near the house, drove by the old house frequently. He and Jacie fell in love with the old house, with its high ceilings and distinctive profile.

The construction phase had its challenges. The couple put up a sign along the construction fence assuring passerby that the house was being renovated – not demolished.

“Everyone in town felt like they were a part of the house,” Jacie said.

People would just wander around on the property as the construction began, which was dangerous. “But other than that, everyone was very supportive. We felt very appreciated by the town.”

While the entire community can be proud of the work they’ve done on the house, it’s important to remember it’s now a private home. As with any other private home, I’d ask you to remember it’s no longer a public place, as it was during its time as a restaurant site.

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The Coon family has created a warm and light-filled home in the old house. With a pleasant mixture of modern and rustic features, their renovation of the house is a delightful new chapter for the property – a place for a young couple to raise their three sons.

As for the solidness of the 1890

construction, Dustin said “It’s cool to think what they built back then is still capable of having a family, of being a home.”

Indeed. The house, built by a couple nearing retirement in 1890, and sheltering generations of different families, is once again a home.

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FASHION

TIMELESS Decades of clothing and accessories

Natalee Fitch-Peppitt manages the Gold Cup Pawn Shop at 1315 Junction Highway in Kerrville. Customers can find gently used items, custom jewelry and new pieces by James Avery. Store hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday. To learn more, call 830-895-3113 or visit goldcuppawn.com.

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Photography by Bella Shearhart

THREADS can be restyled with a modern twist

Kate Howard owns East End Market at 1712 Water St. Customers can wander through an array of antiques, art pieces and vintage clothing. Store hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. To learn more, call 830-955-5882 or search East End Market TX on Facebook.

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KATE HOWARD GET TO KNOW:

OF EAST END MARKET

Q&A by Mia Church

IF YOU GO WHAT: Multi-vendor vintage market that showcases the unique, old and uncommon WHERE: 1712 Water St. WHEN: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Tuesday-Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday CONTACT: 830-955-5882

Kate Howard, owner of East End Market Vintage and Antiques, was born in Kerrville and then, feeling the bug for exploration, moved to Austin and California directly after high school. In the spirit of what's old is new again, she moved back and began her business: East End Market. She offers all sorts of antiques and vintage clothing. The selection is one of the best I've ever seen, and I am a true vintage store seeker. Some of the most eclectic are in the hills of Los Angeles, and this store rivals even those.

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Q: A:

So you grew up in the Hill Country and then decided to move?

You know there was that resistance, wherever you grow up, you want to leave so badly.

When I came back to visit it took on a whole new world feel. There was so much progress, so many young people, young families and it’s just beautiful here! I thought, “Why did I ever leave?” So it wasn’t as hard to come back as I thought it would be.

Q: A:

What did you discover while you were traveling and living in different places?

I adored California’s antique and vintage scene.

I would take the drive through Tujunga to Malibu. There were so many cool little antique shops and “hole in the wall” places, and I loved being out there!

Q:

It’s almost like you brought a piece of your explorations with you back to Kerrville. I love East End Market and it is so reminiscent of that Tujunga vibe.

A:

So, that was one of the things, growing up in Texas, when it comes to antique stores in particular, for the most part you get sort of the same style. You know the rustic, which I love, there’s a place for it, but for me it was always the funky, the weird, the unusual, that's what I loved so much about California. There was so much mid-century vintage, anytime you walked into a store it was like the Jetsons. I liked that a lot, that's what I gravitated toward because it's eclectic and it’s a piece of art.

Q:

Yes, I noticed that midcentury feel in your store.

You have a Fisher Price dollhouse in there that I had in the ’70s. It brought back so many fond memories!

A:

My grandmother kept all of my mom’s old toys, so whenever we would go stay with her in Hunt, we played with all these vintage toys. My grandmother had such an appreciation for antiques and vintage clothing, well I guess it was just her normal clothing, but it was vintage to me! I remember going to her house and just being amazed at these beautiful pieces, the intricate beading, the embossed Christian Dior gowns. It was interesting to see the rise of the smaller designer brands becoming something big. She loved the old Versace, Gucci, Dior ... it was all so beautiful.

Q: A:

I have a collection of vintage clothes that I wear — do you wear a lot of vintage?

I do! So, my best friend Natalee and I bonded over vintage clothes. We both worked at Schreiner Goods, and I love new fashion as we all do but we both loved “the thrill of the hunt” for vintage pieces, one of a kind, things that were actually made for a specific person. I've been shopping vintage since I was 12 years old. My mom would take me to the cottage shop, you can still find some gems there. In high school I would sometimes skip last period, shhhh, and go vintage shopping. It was exciting to me to develop my own personal style that was unique. I could get lost in there for hours!

Q: A:

How do you find the things that you sell at East End Market?

Well, the antiques are almost anywhere: estate sales, yard sales ... but with the clothes, it’s really bad, actually.

People will bring in big piles of clothes saying, “I don’t know what to do with these.” So, I’ll start separating them on the counter, and my mom will say, “Do you want me to start tagging this pile?” And I say,

“No, that’s MY pile!” So, she will end up only tagging three items: “These are all coming home; these stay here.” I really love estate sales, where you will find something, like a piece of vintage jewelry, that shows that person’s style. You don’t get to meet the person typically, but their jewelry can live on and be appreciated by a younger generation.

Q: A:

What else are you doing in Kerrville?

Aside from the store, my passion is actually volunteering, serving, getting to learn about my community, being a young person and being a part of all that's happening here, being able to learn about it, is a huge deal to me. There is so much happening in Kerrville right now, so much growth, and change. Even the Pint and Plow farmers market: This evolved out of necessity. At first, it was every Friday; now it's also Wednesday and we come here at 8 in the morning and pack bags.

Katie is incredible. She puts this together every week. She organizes the orders, and I show up and put them together. Things like this let me see people in the community and interact.

Q:

I know, Kerrville has so many exciting things happening!

A:

Yes! So many are working together not only for economic change but also social change and growth. My big thing is the River Trail. I just love that our city had the forethought to put that in. Our city council is just awesome!

Kate takes her love for turning old into new into her home life as well. She resides in a quaint area of Kerrville where all the homes were built in the 1930s and 1940s. It’s a perfect backdrop for her vintage style.

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TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

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WELLNESS

promoted taking 50-mile hikes, which were required of U.S. Marines

NIXON expanded the Presidential Physical Fitness Awards to include recreation departments and groups, such as boys and girls clubs, and created the Presidential Sports Award.

CARTER prioritized physical fitness and exercise in a national health promotion/ disease prevention initiative, and named Dinah Shore, Dorothy Hamill and Hank Aaron to the Council.

GEORGE H.BUSH expanded the Council to include Chris Evert, Magic Johnson and Wayne Newton; asked Arnold Schwarzenegger to visit all 50 states to advocate for daily, quality physical education.

JOHNSON called for a second national fitness survey of 10- to 17year-olds and established the Presidential Physical Fitness Award for exceptional achievement

FORD promoted the importance of exercise and physical fitness programs and conducted the third national youth fitness survey, which didn’t show as much improvement compared to the previous one in 1965.

REAGAN added Roger Staubach and Pam Shriver to the Council, created The Healthy American Fitness Leaders Award and issued a physical fitness postage stamp.

CLINTON named Florence Griffith Joyner and Zina Garrison to the Council, developed recommendations on how to improve Americans' physical activity and fitness status, and promoted fitness among seniors.

Presidential Fitness Program evolves since 1940s to encourage modern health standards for citizens

By Kathy Sears Hall

n Touching the floor without bending knees

Most of us know that fitness is important and has many benefits, but did you know it has been a national priority for years?

The President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition has roots back to the 1940s. Its purpose is to “engage, educate, and empower all Americans to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and good nutrition.” It is part of the Office of Public Health and Science, an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

How did it get started?

During the 1940s, the American Medical Association and the National Committee on Physical Fitness promoted physical health.

A few years later, Hans Kraus and Sonja Weber, doctors at New York Presbyterian Hospital, set out to assess the fitness of school-age children with the Kraus-Weber Test, a fitness test comprising six simple movements that took 90 seconds:

n A sit-up with knees bent and feet planted n A sit-up with legs extended and not bent n Raising feet while lying on the back n Raising head, chest and shoulders off the ground while lying on the stomach n Raising legs off the ground while lying on the stomach

added Nancy Lopez, Emmitt Smith, and Mary Lou Retton to the Council, with Lynn Swann serving as Chairman; asked the Cooper Institute to create a training regimen for the Secret Service so they could keep up with him on his runs, and announced the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award winners: Ken Cooper, M.D., Jack LaLanne, Judi Sheppard Missett, Bonnie Prudden, Bud Seretean, and Joe Weider.

Bonnie Prudden then used these movements in her newly formed conditioning class, discovering that new students failed the test at 58% while the students who had been exercising in her program failed at only 8%. She went on to test thousands of children and found a U.S. failure rate of 56% compared to 8% in Europe.

Upon learning this news, President Dwight D. Eisenhower was concerned enough that he called for the formation of the President’s Council on Youth Fitness, with Cabinet-level status, which started a national testing program, known today as the Presidential Youth Fitness Program.

What does it look like today?

The original movement tests for children have been replaced over the years with: pushup, curl up, sit and reach, pacer test (running laps) and squats.

All can be found at pyfpstore.org/pages/ pyfpathome, a modification of the schoolbased Presidential Youth Fitness Program.

Videos of each exercise are included, along with standards to compare boys and girls by age group. The website is set up so that the whole family can do these together — which is what these presidents have been trying to accomplish all along!

expanded the mission of the Council to include nutrition, named Drew Brees and Dominique Dawes as council co-chairs and announced a goal "to end the epidemic of childhood obesity in a generation.”

TRUMP

KENNEDY

POWER OF PATRIOTISM

OBAMA

Every president since Eisenhower has continued the presidential fitness program. There have been name changes, the Cabinet size has grown, the scope now includes sports and nutrition, and the target audience has expanded to include all age groups.

Noteworthy updates through the years include:

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

GEORGE W. BUSH

OVER THE DECADES

changed the name to the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition, added Misty May-Treanor, Mariano Rivera and Herschel Walker as co-chairs and Dr. Mehmet Oz as a Council member, published a National Youth Sports Strategy, so “that one day, all youth will have the opportunity, motivation and access to play sports — regardless of their race, ethnicity, sex, ability or ZIP code.”

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WELLNESS

Modern technology is turning the old-fashioned notion of a family doctor making house calls into a reality once more

CONNECT CURE

By Sandra Lane In their efforts to provide health services to an increasing number of patients during the coronavirus epidemic, doctors and hospitals have been offering some innovative new services.

❝

Telehealth is the communication between doctors, health workers and patients through the use of the video and sound functions of iPhones, iPads and computers. In addition, the realization that many services such as blood tests and shots can be performed curbside while patients stay in their cars has also helped to speed up the patient flow.

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JULY 2020

TO THE

Virtual (doctor's) visits have become very convenient for everyone. Patients don’t have to leave their home, and doctors don’t have anyone at risk in their office.

– LISA WINTERS, Public Relations Officer for Peterson Regional Medical Center

“My allergy doctor’s office has no chairs,” Linda Smith said. “Patients sign in and then wait in their cars until they are called or summoned by the nurse at the door.” Except in her case, Smith said, “I don’t even get out of the car. I roll my window down and the nurse gives me my allergy shot.”

Then, she said, she has to continue

sitting in her car for 20 minutes to be sure there is no reaction to the shot.

After an interview with her endocrinologist, Karen Burkett made an appointment to have a drive-through glucose test done. “I drove up and a nurse came out and did a finger prick,” she said. “Then she called about an hour later and told me the results.”

Burkett said the nurse talked about the level of dosage and checked her record, and they matched up well. Fortunately, no changes in medication were needed.

“The only thing I missed is that I didn’t get to weigh myself,” she said.

Lisa Winters, Public Relations Officer for Peterson Regional Medical Center, said, “Virtual visits have become very convenient for everyone. Patients don’t have to leave their home, and doctors don’t have anyone at risk in their office.”

“Many hospitals are having to close or furlough employees,” Winters said. “We always wanted to offer virtual medicine, but this crisis accelerated it. We will have to offer that now to be more efficient.”

In addition to drive-up screening and shots, Peterson health care workers offer advice and guidance on a daily basis through their website, which has a different audio message every day. It also contains information about the current amount of coronavirus cases and how many tests have been done. There are also important tips about symptoms of the virus to look out for and hygiene to prevent it.

There is also a dedicated line with a nurse available to answer health questions. The number for this service is 830-896-4200.

Howard Evans said that he has to have blood tests done about once a year to check on some past medical problems.

“I had to go to the parking lot, back of the Wells Fargo building, to have some blood drawn, and then I left,” he said. Four days later, he had a telehealth conference with his doctor. “The first time you do this, they have to call you ahead of time to tell you how to set it up,” he said. “It’s similar to Zoom.”

Despite the convenience of this service, Evans feels there are some limitations.

“There are some things that cannot be done by video conference,” he said.

“They can’t take your blood pressure or your heart rate. There are some other basic things that are not available, such as having an X-ray or having the doctor examine you.”

Yet he still sees the value in having blood tests done in the parking lot.

Although she likes the convenience of the video conference, Meredith Hensley

Curbside medical services are for pets, too Humans are not the only creatures benefitting from curbside medical services.

Now you can drive your pet to your veterinarian’s office, call to let the receptionist know you are in the parking lot, and wait a short time until someone comes to take your pet to the examining room.

Due to the recent concerns about the coronavirus, veterinarians feel that curbside drop-offs and pick-ups help to keep pet owners out of the exam room, but still connected to the veterinary medical team. The doctor can simply call the client by phone to relay his findings after examining the pet. This service minimizes the number of people entering the clinic and helps to keep both clients and veterinary staff members safe.

Jennifer Houghton, Town and Country Animal Hospital, said, “Pets don’t seem to mind. It’s not much difference for them.”

She said that waiting in the car has definitely been better for some because dogs do better without their owners.

“We had to change how we do business without training or warning,” Houghton said, “and we miss the interaction with the client.”

It’s all a matter of adjustment. “We’re making lemonade out of lemons,” she said, “and we’re going to continue curbside services only. We have been advised by the American and Texas Veterinary Medical Associations to continue this practice indefinitely.”

also points out some limitations.

“You can’t see body language in these video conferences,” she said. “Doctors learn a lot from body language, but you can talk about medication and how this is working, and how you feel about this or that.”

“One of the advantages of curbside service is that we have learned how to be more efficient in certain areas, and pharmacy pickups work more smoothly,” Houghton said. “We also hope to add a drive-through for pet prescriptions.

Presently, we are using a side door for pharmacy pickups.”

She feels these changes will help staff members to operate their clinic more efficiently. She said that Town & Country has a large practice with four veterinarians and 30 employees. In addition to medical services, they offer full boarding facilities.

Hoegemeyer Animal Clinic will also continue to offer curbside veterinary services only. In addition, this clinic offers consultations from home through the TeleVet app. Clients only have to make an appointment to talk with their veterinarian on the phone.

Things that can be discussed through TeleVet include skin concerns and allergies, ear infections, arthritis, anxiety and other behavioral conditions, food allergies, mild sneezing or coughing, superficial bite wounds and chronic medications, among others.

Acute conditions that cannot be handled through TeleVet include serious injuries, throwing up repeatedly within a short period of time, not drinking water or other indications of serious illness. This requires a curbside appointment.

“I miss the personal interaction,” she said. “I guess that’s because I’m a touchyfeely type of person.”

“This type of communication is being used for a lot of different things,” Hensley said. “Some of the health care places like the VA hospitals use this method to assist nurses in offering guidance to their patients, both onsite and offsite.”

People in rural areas where there are no doctors or hospitals are beginning to benefit from this new practice.

A recent National Public Radio poll of rural Americans found that nearly a quarter have used some kind of telehealth service within the past few years.

About 14% say they received a diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or other health care professional using email, text messaging, live text chat, a mobile app or a live video like FaceTime or Skype. And 15% say they have received a diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or other health professional over the phone.

Virginia Silva likes the convenience of the video communication, but also misses the up-close-and-personal experience of sitting across from the doctor.

One doctor said, “A video is truly worth a thousand words. It can mean patients don’t have to make costly, time-consuming trips to see a specialist.”

Another limitation is that the cardiologist could not listen to her heart, she said.

However, she feels that there are some definite benefits to be derived from these video conferences.

25

FEATURE

NEW

By Nancy Foster

Classic

If you live in the Kerrville area, chances are you’ve driven past Wagonmaster on Memorial Boulevard. You can’t miss it – it’s a fenced-in car lot housing dozens of classic Jeep Wagoneers that are either in a stage of repair or for sale.

How this niche-market company has grown and been successful for 27 years is quite a feat, and we reached out to owner Chip Miller to learn more.

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Chip Miller’s desk at Wagonmaster is surrounded by images of classic cars, while rows of old license plates adorn the garage. (Photos by Tom Holden)

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

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How did Wagonmaster start, and how did you get involved?

My family actually has a background in agriculture in New Braunfels. As I grew up, I developed an interest in autos while working with my father, Leon. Once my father retired from farming and ranching, he bought a used Grand Wagoneer and fixed it up. Since Chrysler had ceased production of the line in 1991, he

IF YOU GO WHAT: Wagonmaster – building, refurbishing and restoring Jeeps WHERE: 2905 Memorial Blvd.

WHEN: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

CONTACT: 830-6605187, wagonmaster.com

seized on the idea to launch a second career and opened his business in 1992 to specialize in building, refurbishing and restoring classic Jeep Wagoneers and Grand Wagoneers. He stayed at the helm until I joined him as a partner in 2010. Leon continued to work at the daily operation until 2014 when he was 82, at which time I took sole ownership. Still active at 86, his love for these classic vehicles is stronger than ever.

Many people want the look of yesteryear but the modern touches of today, so we can also customize with add-ons including new Alpine Sound systems, Xenon Headlamps and rear shoulder seat belts.

Do you sell parts?

Parts are getting to be a larger piece of our business – from hood ornaments to woodgrain cut-to-fit kits.

How many vehicles do you have and how many have you sold?

We’ve now passed the 2,000 mark for sales and currently have about 80 in our inventory. If people are looking to sell, we look for vehicles that are rust free and have under 70,000 miles. For those needing restoration jobs, we’ve serviced vehicles from across the U.S. Some people drive their cars in and some will use trailers.

How big is your operation and is all work done on-site?

We have nine staff, including mechanics, technicians and a fulltime painter. We work between our two 2,500-square-foot warehouses in Kerrville and Center Point.

Reupholstery is done in San Antonio, as is wheel refinishing and chrome work.

Here in Kerrville, we’re fortunate to work with Bobby Booth of Royal Auto Trim & Upholstery who specializes in wood grain, molding, headliners and trim work.

all SUVs” since it was designed to blend 4-wheel drive versatility with comfort and style and engineered for off-roading. Some owners use them just for weekend drives, others belong to car clubs and others enter them in shows.

A certain pride of ownership comes to those who possess a vehicle that was only manufactured from 1963-1991.

What about rumors of a '21 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer?

We’ll comment when we see it. I will say that a contingency of Jeep officials from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. came to visit us several years back to talk about the possibility. If they do bring the line back, it would be manufactured at their Toledo plant.

When you do a restoration, what might it entail?

Do you have many visitors who stop by to drool?

Each case is different, of course, but we’ll replace or renew all major systems, including the A/C, steering and engine systems, and we install new Howell Fuel Injection systems.

We work the electrical, sound and exhaust systems, renew or install new interior components throughout and ensure that paint, body work, woodgrain, molding, chrome, trim, undersiding and all aspects of the restoration meet our standards.

It’s surprising how many that do.

Tourists from around the world stop by to see our Wagoneers. I still marvel at an Australian man who flew into Houston and drove over specifically to see our operation.

What's the best part of your job?

We are happy to celebrate 27 years in Kerrville. The community has been good to us and we appreciate it. We are blessed to be here.

What do restored vehicles cost and who typically buys them?

Currently, prices range from $60,000 to $90,000. People from around the U.S. buy our vehicles, and we’ve exported others to Germany, Canada, and the Netherlands. Lately, we've seen an increase in women buying them, basically because they are stylish, sturdy, and they love the signature wood grain panels.

Why do Jeep Wagoneers continue to be popular today?

When you think of it, the Grand Wagoneer was actually the “father of

27

FEATURE

Showcasing

Kerrville framers protect, highlight family treasures Story by Nancy Foster Photos by Tom Holden She’s been tasked with framing a handwritten letter written by George Washington, a pair of jeans owned by George Strait, a Rolling Stones guitar, and even some “computer guts” sourced from a top-secret computer. In addition to the unique, rare and unusual, she’s also done framing and shadowboxing on hundreds of family heirlooms, artifacts and sentimental items.

Debbie Wilson of River’s Edge Gallery in downtown Kerrville has definitely mastered the art of framing.

Her roots

Wilson first discovered her love for framing and design years ago in her hometown of Poway, California. Her next move was to Vegas, where she continued to hone her skills and met her husband, Mike. The Wilsons moved to Kerrville in 2000, then combined their artistic talents to open River’s Edge Gallery. In recent years, they have expanded into an adjacent storefront, tastefully creating a spacious 20,000-square-foot combined gallery, frame shop and workshop.

Framing process

Wilson’s clients come to her online, as store visitors and via personal referrals from her vast list of satisfied customers. When each framing request comes in, she begins with a customer consultation.

“The first step, and most important, involves the selection of colors,

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TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

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JULY 2020

IF YOU GO

textures, frames and matting. I then do a preliminary layout so they can envision the final piece,” she said.

All work is done in her on-site workshop, and considerable time and patience go into each job. She claims it’s all fun. Details are essential to Wilson, who is quite the perfectionist when it comes to her work.

“This is my form of doing art, so I’m very exact in each design,” she said. “I’ll hand stitch items to affix, use silicone

WHAT: River’s Edge Gallery – fine art and museum-quality framing in the Hill Country WHERE: 832 Water St. WHEN: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday CONTACT: 830-895-5184, www.riversedge gallery.net

cement to fasten metal objects onto fabric mats, position frames inside of frames and go for a distinctive look.

Depending upon the complexity, a piece may take weeks to finish.”

She loves thinking outside the box and using new technology that will preserve each piece for generations. She’s framed jewelry, coins, kimonos, wedding

Memories

memorabilia and even a full-size Native American ceremonial outfit. She sees every piece as a new challenge. Wilson takes pride in knowing that her work can be seen in homes, businesses and public places throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Specialties

“Military pieces, especially from World War I and II, are exciting for me and offer a way to immortalize someone’s service to our country,” Wilson said. “I can include photos, medals, uniforms, badges, insignias, handguns and even entire uniforms.

These treasures don’t belong in a box on a shelf; they need to be displayed.

It’s an honor to turn these into custom masterpieces to be enjoyed and cherished.”

“I also love doing shadow boxing — a complex process,” she continued. “I have to think how deep the frame should be, what glass to use and how to line the box so the glass doesn’t fall down or rest on the artwork. Measurements are so essential to ensure everything fits into the right place.”

Quality

“I use only real wood frames, everything from burl wood to cherry and oak,” Wilson said. “Which glass to use is also an important part of the frame job. The glass world has changed a lot.

I love — and use extensively — museum anti-reflective glass. It may cost more, but it is worth every bit. We also carry conservation glass that keeps the light from fading the artwork.”

All the moulding is put together in the store, allowing her to measure and adjust during the process.

“Precut materials don’t provide the same quality,” she said.

Pricing varies for each job, but “we let the customer know all their options and prices up front to help them make the right decisions.”

Some clients request assistance with art that is tarnished, damaged or has cracked frames. Using the newest technology, Wilson and husband Mike restore and refinish the art — even bronzes.

Satisfaction was written over Wilson’s face as she explained, “The happy smiles when people see their finished pieces make it all worthwhile.

Some people even cry. I love my job.”

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K

SWEET & SAVORY

itchen staples: eggs, flour and sugar. We didn’t give them much thought until the beginning of the pandemic and we were staring down long, empty grocery store aisles. Not only had toilet paper vanished, but so had any kind of sauce, soup or kitchen baking staple. The bread aisle had a few lonely loaves, and the H-E-B bakery had gone dark. Suddenly we were thrust into our kitchens and letting go of our cooking inhibitions.

WHITE SAUCE Ingredients (easily doubled):

2 Tbsp. butter 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour 1/8 tsp. salt Dash white pepper 1 cup 2% milk

Directions: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, salt and pepper until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Use immediately or refrigerate.

For tuna a la king, add one 12 oz. can albacore tuna and 1 cup peas.

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INGREDIENT INNOVATION

By Stacy Whittemore I was blessed during this time to come from a long line of amazing women who had to live frugally and could whip up baking items from just a few simple ingredients.

Happily, I worked my way through their recipes during the stay-at-home orders. I also had a stash of vintage wartime cookbooks to keep me intrigued and entertained during the quarantine.

My favorite recipe I found: how to prepare a rabbit your husband brought home. Of course, it had a detailed diagram of how to do it. The wild bunnies in our yard are safe, and I only briefly thought about the deer that wander in the fields as stew ingredients.

According to a survey by Food Navigator-USA, over 40% percent of people said they will continue to budget and cook at home. As we transition back to somewhat normal work and family routine, we will continue to embrace our newfound cooking styles.

Here are two timeless recipes that work for busy nights and can be used in a variety of recipes.

FOUNDATION SWEET DOUGH Ingredients:

4½ teaspoons yeast

(Note: the original recipe calls for 2 cakes of yeast. 1 cake = 2¼ tsp.)

1 Tbsp. sugar 1 cup lukewarm water 1 cup of milk 6 tablespoons shortening

½ cup sugar 1 teaspoon salt 7 cups sifted flour 3 eggs beaten

Cinnamon Roll filling 6 Tbsp. melted butter 1½ cups brown sugar 1 tsp. cinnamon

Directions: Dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in lukewarm water.

Let sit for 5 minutes. Scald milk, add shortening, sugar, and salt; cool to lukewarm. Add 2 cups flour to milk mixture to make a batter. Add yeast and beaten eggs; beat well. Add remaining flour or enough to make a soft dough. Knead lightly and place in a greased bowl. Cover and set in a warm place, free from draft. Let rise until doubled in bulk, about 2 hours. When light, punch dough down and shape for desired recipe.

For cinnamon rolls: Roll dough into oblong piece ¼ inch thick. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll up as for jelly roll and cut in 1-inch slices. Place cut side up, about 1 inch apart in large shallow greased baking pan. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about an hour.

Bake at 425 degrees for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

WHAT IS SCALDED MILK? This is milk heated to no higher than 83 degrees. Think about what you would heat a baby bottle to. In old recipes, this was called for to kill any bacteria because milk wasn’t pasteurized. Now it is used to deactivate the whey protein, which can weaken gluten and prevent the dough from rising properly.

Foundation sweet dough uses less sugar but is a powerhouse base for many recipes. The recipe comes from a cookbook published during 1942 at the height of World War II sugar rationing.

Light and fluffy, you can make cinnamon rolls, fruit-filled rolls, Danish roll or roll into strips and twist to make dessert pretzels.

Béchamel sauce, also known as white sauce, originated in France and Italy and is made from a white roux (butter and flour) and milk. During my childhood, my mother would make tuna a la king

with this sauce. Served on thick chunks of homemade bread with a side of cottage cheese with peaches and a cherry on top, she made it look so impressive. I always thought it was a “special” meal.

Years later I figured out it was a clever way to stretch a budget. This sauce can be made with regular milk, canned milk or for a rich sauce, cream. The flavor combinations are endless. Sauté chopped celery and onions with this sauce for a substitute for creamed celery soup. Add wine for a dash of sophistication and high notes for a creamed pasta dish.

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SWEET & SAVORY

RICE & LENTIL PILAF

GOING

GREEN Vegetarian choices can help to slim your body and your grocery budget

U

By Sandra Lane

nexpected events usually bring a lot of changes to our lives. That has certainly been true in the recent coronavirus epidemic. One of those changes concerns the supply and cost of food.

We’ve watched the cost of meat, eggs and even potatoes go up as the virus attacked those working in processing plants and distribution networks. The Department of Labor reports that the 4% increase in April food prices was the largest monthly increase in 46 years.

The combination of rising food prices and an unemployment rate of 13.3% reported by the Department of Labor in May means that many people may need to take a look at how to reduce the cost of food purchased for their families.

One way to reduce food costs is to stop eating meat or at least limit meals that feature meat to only a few days a week.

Oh, listen to the screams of those die-hard meat eaters. “It’s not healthy to not eat meat,” they say. “How will we get the amount of protein we need?”

This is not the first time people have had to make adjustments to survive in times of crisis. Remember that during

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World War II, people grew their own vegetables, meat was rationed, and heart disease declined because people were eating less fat. So, there are benefits to be derived from making a change in diet.

Mayo Clinic diet guidelines

To get the lowdown on planning a healthy vegetarian or semi-vegetarian diet, find a guide from the Mayo Clinic by visiting DailyTimes.com and clicking on this article.

Instead of getting off of meat “cold turkey” (pardon the expression), here are suggestions from the Mayo Clinic for adjusting your diet gradually: n Ramp up: Each week increase the number of meatless meals you already enjoy, such as spaghetti with tomato sauce or vegetable stir-fry. Find ways to include greens, such as spinach, kale, Swiss chard and collards, in your daily meals. n Substitute: Take favorite recipes and try them without meat. For example, make vegetarian chili by leaving out the ground beef and adding an extra can of black beans. Or make fajitas using extrafirm tofu rather than chicken. You may be surprised to find that many dishes require only simple substitutions.

Ingredients: 2 Tbsp. olive oil 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped (about 1 cup) 2 stalks celery, sliced (about 1 cup) 1 large onion, chopped (about 1 cup) 3 cloves garlic, minced 1¾ cups vegetable broth (canned) or 1¾ cups water and 2 bouillon cubes ½ cup dried lentils (rinsed) ½ cup uncooked long grain brown rice (rinsed) 2 medium Roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro

Directions: Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, onion and garlic and cook until tender. Stir in broth, lentils and rice and heat to a boil. Reduce heat to low.

Cover and cook for 30 minutes or until the rice and lentils are tender. Stir in tomatoes and cilantro. Season to taste.

(I like to add a few red pepper flakes to my serving.) Decorate with some cilantro pieces. Add a green salad and tortillas or tortilla chips.

For local support with a vegetarian diet, check out the Get Healthy Kerrville (Whole Food Plant Based) group page on Facebook. n Branch out: Check the internet for vegetarian menus. Buy or borrow vegetarian cookbooks. The more variety you bring to your diet, the more likely you'll be to meet all nutritional needs.

Understanding nutrition

Did you know that the combination of rice and beans contains all nine essential amino acids to form a complete source of protein? The term “complete protein” refers to amino acids, the building blocks of protein.

Here’s a sample recipe for a tasty main dish without meat. You can spice it up to suit your taste. There are also many great recipes to be found on the Internet. Just take your pick!

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GO & DO

HILL COUNTRY EVENTS IN

JULY Dive-In Movie at the Pool “Lilo & Stitch” (PG) 9 p.m. July 3 Families can attend and swim, or float while a family-friendly movie plays on a large poolside screen. Kerrville Municipal Pool, 601 Olympic Drive. 830-257-7300. www.kerrvilletx.gov

Annual Southwest Gourd Fine Art Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 1-3 The nation’s finest gourd artists compete in a variety of categories. Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St. 830-895-2911. www.kacckerrville.com

KACC Art Exhibits 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 1-3

Shakespeare in the Park “King Lear” 8 p.m. July 3-4 Bring your chair/blanket and picnic baskets and enjoy a free play in Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive.

830-896-9393. www.caillouxperforming arts.com

16th annual Hometown Crafts Teachers’ Show by art educators of the Texas Hill Country and a history exhibit related to the Kerrville area

by Joe Herring Jr. Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St. 830-8952911. www.kacckerrville.com

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

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Bring the kids, blankets, chairs and flashlights for a free evening outside at the movies. Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive. 830-257-7300. www.kerrvilletx.gov

“The Outsider”

Concerts by the River 7 p.m. July 11 and July 17 Grab a chair and come out to the park to enjoy a free concert along the banks of the Guadalupe River. Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive. 830-2577300. www.kerrvilletx.gov

MOWA Exhibit

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9 p.m. July 10

A timely and hilarious comedy that skewers politics and celebrates democracy by Paul Slade Smith.

Playhouse 2000 VK Garage Theater, 305 Washington St. 830-896-9393. www. caillouxperformingarts.com

10 a.m.-4 p.m. TuesdaySaturday, July 9-Aug. 8

“Looks Like We’ll Just Have to Tighten Our Belts Again” by Gene Zesch, an American sculpture known for his caricature figurines of Texas cowboys.

Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Hwy. 830-896-2553. www.museumof westernart.com

Movie in the Park “Toy Story 4” (G)

7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Sunday, July 10-26

“From Realism to Surrealism,” featuring the Lovelace family and art by Barbara Blackburn Cooledge. Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St. 830-895-2911. www.kacckerrville.com

10 a.m.-4 p.m. TuesdaySaturday through July

Louise Hays Park’s splashpad and playgrounds, or cool off in the Guadalupe River. Live music kicks off at 5 p.m. (bands TBA) and a free concert featuring Robert Earl Keen at 8 p.m. Free family fun and the largest fireworks display in the Texas Hill Country. Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive. info@thearcadia live.org; www.robertearlkeens4th.com

4th of July on the River Noon-10 p.m. July 4 Enjoy food, vendor booths, family fun, bounce houses and face painting at Robert Early Keen's 4th on the River.

Entertain yourselves and the kids with

Texas Gun & Knife Show 9 a.m.-5 p.m. July 11 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 12

Vendors sell used and new guns, ammo and knives. Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Texas 27. 830-285-0575. www.texasgunandknifeshows.com

Mother/Son Date Knight 5-8 p.m. July 18 Queens and their princes are invited to join us for our inaugural mother and son dance. Event includes dinner, dancing and a commemorative photo. Dietert Center, 451 Guadalupe St. 830-257-7300. www.kerrvilletx.gov

Bobby Flores and the Yellow Rose Band 7:30 p.m. July 18 Texas gem and multi-talented musician brings his Yellow Rose Band and his unique brand of Texas Swing. Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St. 830-896-9393. www.caillouxperformingarts.com

Fifth annual Kerrville Summer Market 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 11 11 a.m.-4 p.m. July 12 Vendors from all over the state present their art, jewelry, gourmet food, gift items and much more. Inn of the Hills Hotel and Conference Center, 1001 Junction Hwy. 888-225-3427. www. texasmarketguide.com

MixTape: Tribute to the ’80s 7:30 p.m. July 11

Movie in the Park “The Goonies” (PG) 9 p.m. July 24 Bring the kids, blankets, chairs and flashlights for a free evening outside at the movies. Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive. 830-257-7300. www. kerrvilletx.gov

“Into the Woods, Jr.” 7:30 p.m. July 24-25 2:30 p.m. July 26 Playhouse 2000 Youth Theater presents a new take on Stephen Sondheim’s

and James Lapine’s groundbreaking musical fairytale about wishes and the choices we make. Playhouse 2000 VK Garage Theater, 305 Washington St. 830-896-9393. www.caillouxperforming arts.com

UGRA River Clean Up 8 a.m.-noon July 25 16th annual community event to remove trash from the Guadalupe River and raise awareness about the issue of litter in the area. Flat Rock Lake Park, 3840 Riverside Drive. 830-8965445. www.ugra.org/major-initiatives/ river-clean-up

Family Swim Night 6:30-8:30 p.m. July 25 Celebrate summer with a family pool party. Come to the Olympic Pool for a special evening of games, food and swimming. Admission is $2 and will include a meal ticket. Kerrville Olympic Pool, 601 Olympic Drive. 830-257-7300. www.kerrvilletx.gov

75th annual Heart of the Hills Golf Tournament Times vary, July 27-31 Golfers from around the country and state compete in this annual 72-hole tournament. Scott Schreiner Golf Course, 1 Country Club Lane. 830-8951027. www.hohkerr.com

Featuring a six-piece band made up of award-winning studio musicians, this concert will take you back in time to enjoy hits from artists like Journey, Bon Jovi, Toto, Huey Lewis & The News, Van Halen, REO Speedwagon, Mr. Mister, Chicago, Bryan Adams, The Outfield, Tears For Fears, Dire Straits, .38 Special, Poison, Night Ranger, A-ha, Yes, Glass Tiger, Bad English, Don Henley, Peter Gabriel and Loverboy. Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St. 830-896-9393. www.cailloux performingarts.com

“Steel Magnolias” 8:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, July 17-Aug.1 A comedy-drama about the bond among a group of Southern women in Northwest Louisiana. Hill Country Arts Foundation, Outdoor Theatre, 120 Point Theatre Road, Ingram.

830-367-5121. www.hcaf.com

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Comanche Trace offers wonderful amenities to our Members & Residents. There is something for everyone at the “Friendliest Club in The Hill Country”!

We offer diverse Membership Plans, sure to fit your needs!

Contact Gena Teer, Membership Director at (830) 895-8500 ext. 224 or gteer@comanchetrace.com 2

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2801 Comanche Trace Dr., Kerrville, Texas 78028 | ComancheTrace.com | (830) 895-8505 1. #9 of The Valley Course, 2. Comanche Trace’s 8 Acre River Park (With Dam access), 3. Tennis & Pickleball Courts, Swimming Pool, 4+ mile Walking & Biking Trail, 4. Comanche Trace’s 8 Acre River Park, 5. 4 Acre Stocked, Catch & Release Fishing Lake, 6. Community Garden