Riverhill Living Fall 2020

RIVERHILL Living FACE THE

MUSIC

IN THIS ISSUE:

Fall 2020 | Vol. 4, Issue 3

TUNING IN ON OUR CREATIVE NEIGHBORS

n Remembering F. O’Neil Griffin n Make your home your sanctuary n Hitting the road with the Ortegas n In the kitchen with Rhonda & Billy Taylor

ADVERTORIAL

Teresa Carosella • Owner Kerrville Window Fashion

APOR Annual Meeting will be Monday, October 19, 2020 Social Time: 5:30 p.m.

Business Meeting: 6 p.m.

Riverhill Country Club • Door Prizes •

2020, and Beyond….5 Years in Kerrville!!

A year to be remembered, and remember it we will. In March, we were on a cruise (one of the last ones) when they announced, as we were eating dinner, in the formal dining room that cruises were being suspended effective immediately.

They would get us home, of course (thank you very much!).

When we arrived home, there was much uncertainty but we were thankful to be home and spend a few weeks in self imposed quarantine. However, we never stopped answering the phones, and monitoring emails. As it turned out, our clients were unable to travel or go shopping and they were spending more time at home. Looking at those shades or blinds that they had been meaning to update. Now is the time, we learned.

In the midst of this we decided to move from our Junction Hwy location of 4 years to another more centrally located studio that is open by appointment. Since all of our consultations occur in client’s homes, it has been amazing.

We have been busier than ever and are still offering the best in customer service to our clients. Our services have not been reduced but rather enhanced with virtual Facetime or Zoom appointments.

Our vendors are USA based and most are operating at 50% capacity. Lead times are a bit longer than usual but we feel the quality of the products we offer are worth the wait. Our team, both sales and installation, have been busily helping our clients update their homes for more beauty, function, and energy efficiency. New PowerView rechargeable systems by Hunter Douglas make motorization a more desirable and affordable option than ever.

In 2019, we celebrated our 4 year anniversary with an open house/party. This year, we are celebrating by offering a 15% “anniversary discount” savings to our clients who mention they saw this ad in RiverHills Living. Call today for your savings opportunity, this is in addition to the great Hunter Douglas rebates going on now.

OUR NEW LOCATION 512 Sidney Baker, Suite 180 • Kerrville (Guadalupe Plaza, behind Jack in the Box)

Call for your private consultation. 830-733-0041 Kerrvillewindowfashions.com • Available 24-7

2 Fall 2020

POLICE — COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

Riverhill National Night Out will be held on Tuesday, October 6.

If you would like to be a host home for the event this year, please email your name and address to: aporboard@gmail.com.

We had 12 host homes last year, and we can safely gather and social distance this year, so please register!

We need community now more than ever!

Our first responders will try to visit as many host homes as possible.

Kerrville Funeral KFH Home Gene and Katie Allen, his family and the staff take great pride in being a part of the Kerrville community.

“Serving each family with dignity, pride and honor since 1967.”

1221 Junction Highway • Kerrville, Texas 78028 830-895-5111 • www.kerrvillefuneralhometx.com TFSC Lic. #2355

RIVERHILL

Living

The Kerrville Daily Times Staff Carlina Villalpando Publisher

Louis Amestoy

Managing Editor

Jeanette Eastwood Nash

Assistant Managing Editor

Nicole Crapps

Page Designer

John Doran

Advertising Director

Jonathan Toye Staff Writer

Contributors Nancy Foster Mindy Wendele Greg Shrader Lindsay Eastland Photography Tom Holden Advertising Luly Bliss Brandon Baldwin Valerie Tucker Composition Dean Heep Johanna Rangel Contact Riverhill www.riverhillpoa.com Send story ideas to riverhill@dailytimes.com Contact The Daily Times 429 Jefferson St., Kerrville www.dailytimes.com 896-7000

Message from the President year, we are more comfortable Summer has sizzled with hot in our role, and then it’s time temperatures as we continue to step down. By extending to live through unprecedented the terms to three years, board times. Hopefully, with cooler members can better serve the weather on the horizon, we can membership. take a deep breath and enjoy a This year, we will be more normal fall. monitoring the situation with In this edition of the Riverhill COVID 19 concerning large Living Magazine, we highlight group gatherings. Ample notice several members as they share MINDY WENDELE their passion for music, design, President – APOR Board will be given of any changes to location or process as we are travel and cooking. I’m always amazed at the talent in our neighborhood closer to the date.

Do you know what your annual and appreciate our members allowing us dues pay for each year? APOR is to come into their lives each magazine. responsible for specific green space In addition, our Resident Spotlight is a mowing, maintenance of the Riverhill very special tribute to a great man.

Boulevard traffic circles and the entrance Fall ushers in annual events we look landscaped areas. In addition, our forward to each year. On Tuesday, association is required by state law October 6, we will celebrate our neighbors with National Night Out staged pertaining to homeowner associations strict record keeping, providing resource in varies sections of our neighborhood. materials and building information, Typically, for a couple of evening which we do on our website. The hours, neighbors gather in cul-de-sacs association has one employee, Andy or driveways for the opportunity to Magee, who is responsible for assisting catch up with friends and meet new the board of directors in day-to-day residents. Officers from the Kerrville Police Department pay each group a visit operations.

Are you a member of APOR? If the to share ideas for safety and update on answer is yes, thank you for participating department activities. in your neighborhood association. If the Our annual meeting is scheduled for answer is no, I encourage you to join October 19, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. During so you can have a voice, receive email annual meetings, we review the past blasts on current events and helpful year, elect board members for the next neighborhood information. It’s the best year and update members on projects. investment in your neighborhood you’ll This year, members will have the opportunity to vote on an amendment to spend.

For more information about these our bylaws. The proposed amendment activities, please visit our website at addresses the length of terms for board members. Currently, each board member www.riverhillpoa.com. While on the serves one two-year term. My experience website take note of our scheduled Board meetings throughout the year. APOR is, during the first year of serving, members are learning about committees, Board meetings are open to all APOR members. projects and procedures. In the second

ON THE COVER

Front row, from left: Gary Hatch, Shelly Rogers, Steve McFadden, Lynette Wedig, Kaylee Edwards and Paul Stafford.

Middle row, from left: Niel Powers, Charley Chipman, Maggie Steele, Chuck Paul, Tim Locke, Patti Hatch.

Back row, from left: Sharon Smith, Marty Rachford, Laura Shrader, Carol Holmes, Mary Amburn and Steve Schneider.

Photo by Paul Stafford

Riverhill Living 3

4 Summer 2020

Table of Contents

Features The (River)Hills are Alive with the Sound of Music ........................................... 10 On the Road Again with the Ortegas ............ 16

Tips for making your home the sanctuary you deserve.

Page 14 and 15.

Cooking with Rhonda and Billy Taylor .......... 18

Resident Spotlight

F. O’Neil Griffin speaks at his alma mater, Arkansas State University. Friends and neighbors pay tribute to the late Mr. Griffin on Page 8 and 9. (Courtesy photo)

Remembering Neil Griffin .............................. 8

Yard & Home News Yard of the Month ......................................... 6 Love Where You Live .................................... 14

Photos Neighborhood Brags .............................. 12-13

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Riverhill Living 5

Yard of the Month MAY YARD OF THE MONTH:

PEACEFUL & INVITING

Congratulations to the Houdeshells at 213 Lakewood Drive.

They not only have beautiful new landscaping but a gorgeous new pool. All the beauty of this home and pool are surrounded with numerous mature oak trees and an inviting fire pit and Adirondack chairs. Peaceful and inviting! You are going to want to drive by and take a look for yourself at this beautiful home!

JUNE YARD OF THE MONTH:

DEEP SENSE OF

PATRIOTISM Congratulations to Judy Webb-Smith at 22 Antelope Trail. Her beautiful home is in a park-like setting nestled at the end of Antelope Trail. This American flag seen here at the center island is the 67th flag she has raised since she has owned her home. Her beautifully shaded backyard is accented by the curved rock border wall that surrounds the property and is adorned with greenery and daisies. Judy has a deep sense of patriotism, as illustrated here by an additional American flag in the back of her home that can be seen by the golfers as they pass by. Take some time to drive by and enjoy the beauty of her home.

6 Fall 2020

JULY YARD OF THE MONTH:

SHADED TRANQUILITY

Congratulations to Karl and Neita Prohl. Their beautiful golf course home sits on the cul de sac at the end of Englewood Drive. It has many mature oak trees that surround the whole property, giving the patio much-needed natural shade during our warm summer months. The patio is accented with many flower-filled pots, for all seated on the patio to enjoy.

Everything on this property is immaculate and manicured, lending a feeling of peace and tranquility.

Riverhill Living 7

Resident Spotlight

REMEMBERING OUR NEIGHBOR Traditionally, we spotlight a Riverhill resident on this page through a questionand-answer presentation. This edition, we will break from tradition to remember a very special resident whom we lost earlier this summer as friends, colleagues and neighbors share their thoughts.

F. O’NEILL GRIFFIN September 10, 1926 - June 27, 2020

Story by Mindy Wendele

B

orn in 1926, longtime Riverhill resident F. O’Neil Griffin was a member of the Greatest Generation. He was larger than life to many of us who remember him as a generous and gracious gentleman. He was a man of integrity who was willing to help countless individuals, families, educational institutions and non-profit organizations.

Mr. Griffin was born on the family farm in Arkansas as one of 10 children.

He attended public schools until he dropped out of high school to enlist in the U.S. Navy. Honorable discharged after he served in the Pacific theater, Griffin used his G.I. Bill to attend Arkansas State University, completing his undergraduate degree in 2½ years.

He received his master’s degree from the University of Texas and later become a Certified Public Accountant.

Griffin’s business career spanned from public accounting, the oil and mineral business, banking and real estate investments.

My first remembrance of Mr. Griffin, better known to my family as “Mr. G.,” was when he owned First National Bank of Kerrville and our family held an office in the bank building. At the time, my daughter, Meredith Wendele Jakovich, was an elementary school student who would visit our office after school. She soon became friends with Mr. G. when she would deliver airline tickets to his office or when they talked about school in the hallways.

8 Fall 2020

Meredith Wendele Jakovich, right, fondly recalls her time working with “Mr. G.,” whom she first met as a child.

“I first met Mr. Griffin when I was 9 years old. I would often stay at my grandmother’s travel agency, which was located in his bank building. Mr. G.’s office was on the same floor as the travel agency, so I would often see him as I was running around the building. As a child, I remember his kindness. He always had a smile for me and pleasant greeting. Many years later, I had the opportunity to work with him in my professional career. His kind nature was still prevalent. I admired him for his ability to succeed in business while maintaining a compassion for others. He was one of my favorite people, and I will miss him greatly,” remembered Jakovich.

‘THE SMARTEST MAN I KNEW’ Former Kerrville resident and community leader William “Bill” Goertz

probably spent more time with Mr. Griffin than most others.

He shares: “My wife Patsy and I have known Neil Griffin for 36 years, starting with his hiring me to become president of First National Bank of Kerrville. My association with Neil has been the most meaningful part of my professional life. Neil was a tough but fair boss, maintained high ethical standards and was the smartest man I ever knew. He could get to the heart of a problem faster than anyone. He was at his best when met with a challenge such as the banking crisis of the 1980s. After the sale of First National in 1995, Neil became a close friend and mentor to me. Patsy and I will always cherish our relationship, particularly the last several years. Even though his body declined in health, his mind was so clear, even till the last. And, we all owe thanks to his wife, Gena, who he cherished and was such a support for Neil, particularly as he dealt with health issues. We will miss him.”

A LIFETIME OF PHILANTHROPY Following his retirement from banking, Mr. Griffin continued to devote his time to philanthropy. His primary interests were education and health care. His foundation granted countless scholarships to the youth of Kerr County.

He made significant gifts to Schreiner University, where he was a member of the university’s Board of Trustees. He was instrumental in the establishment of Alamo Colleges-Greater Kerrville Center

and endowed a scholarship fund for students.

In 2015, Families & Literacy, Inc. honored Mr. Griffin as their Champion of Education. I was serving as the nonprofit organization’s executive director and enjoyed getting reacquainted with him after many years.

The organization supports adult students without a high school diploma achieve their GED certification and adults whose first language is not English to obtain the necessary skills to be active contributors in the life of the community. Mr. Griffin and Dr. Chris Avery established the James Avery and Gena & F. O’ Neal Griffin Endowment for the benefit of Families & Literacy to help insure sustainability for the adult learners.

HE WAS ‘GENUINE’ Longtime banker and former executive director of the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country Paul Urban assisted Families & Literacy with the endowment, which is held at the foundation.

“When I think of Neil Griffin, one word comes to mind: genuine. There was no pretense, what you saw what you got. He worked hard, played hard and was highly successful in business and life. What pleased Neil most about his success was that it allowed him to help so many others, particularly in providing educational opportunities. He never forgot his roots,” added Urban.

He established a scholarship at Arkansas State University, his alma mater, to benefit students from Arkansas and southeast Missouri. In 2019, the university honored him by naming their new College of Business building the Neil Griffin College of Business.

HEALTH CARE & EDUCATION Health care was very important to Mr. Griffin. He served on the Board of Visitors for The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston for many years and, in recognition of his contributions and fundraising efforts, M.D. Anderson honored him by naming their conference center the F. O’Neil “Neil” Griffin Conference Center. Also, he was a supporter of the University of Texas Medical School in Galveston.

Here in Kerrville patrons and patients of Peterson Regional Medical Center witness his name at the front entry of the main hospital entrance.

The late Neil Griffin, shown with his devoted wife, Gena, was widely known for his philanthropic efforts, but in the Riverhill community, he was also known as a good friend and neighbor.

Neighbors and friends Julie and Scott Stumbo share their special thoughts: “Gena and Neil became our Riverhill neighbors after Julie and I moved to the Hill Country to join Arms of Hope and Medina Children’s Home 10 years ago.

They opened their home at a ‘meet the neighbor’ Christmas party. We gained appreciation for their friendliness and of Neil’s sharp wit that evening. I learned he grew up in a farm family, and we had a common background. Over the years, I also learned Neil’s interest was education, specifically significant concern for students whose need and attempts to obtain post high school degrees were thwarted by location and money. Neil planted the seed to bring in the Alamo Colleges to Kerrville. First the thought then the capital donation and annual scholarship/endowment donations that followed. Big gifts, big heart.”

Stumbo added, “I will attest to the positive impact Neil’s effort made on the lives we serve at the Arms of Hope’s Medina Campus. It is significantly meaningful, every single day. Twenty single mothers who had no aspiration or hope of achieving a college education (most had not finished high school) are

students at Alamo and earn a GED and then an associate degree (some continue and earn a bachelor’s degree too). Neil, who is recognized as a great banker and businessman, was truly a lifetime farmer. An education farmer. A field was ‘purchased,’ tilled, seeded, planted and watered: Generations of lives are changed, what sweet fruit.”

Mr. G. was not all work and no play.

He loved golf. It’s my understanding some of his favorite golfing venues were in at least three different states.

I remember listening to stories about celebrities he played with on some of the most beautiful courses in the world.

Not a golfer at the time, I didn’t fully grasp the game or it’s challenges or the risk/reward strategies. Now I understand the significance of the fellowship gained and integrity enjoyed by being “‘a golfer.” And, if honest, I’m a little starryeyed about his four holes-in-one.

When he retired from golf, it was not unusual for him to be at 19th hole of the Turning Point in a hot card game each week. He always had a smile and, many times, a story.

Yes, we lost one of the greatest of his generation this year. F. O’Neil Griffin will be missed by so many, but his giving spirit will live on for decades. He planted the seed, he set the bar high, and he led by example. Those of us who knew him are blessed.

Riverhill Living 9

Cover Story

THE (RIVER)HILLS ARE ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF

music

PHOTO BY PAUL STAFFORD

Story by Nancy Foster

W

hen the email was sent asking for residents to share the musical part of their lives, little did we know the response would be so great. We heard from vocalists, guitarists, pianists and a fabulously diverse variety of musicians. We interviewed people in their teens to their 80s.

Some play for self-enrichment and others have enjoyed success in the professional world. We think you’ll be delighted and amazed at the musical footprint being left by your neighbors.

COURTESY PHOTO

v

NIEL POWERS visited Kerrville from Colorado Springs many times before moving to Riverhill almost seven years ago. This talented musician, who plays guitar and bass, currently has in his instrument collection three electric guitars (two Fenders and a Gibson), a Martin acoustic guitar, Fender electric bass, Gibson dobro and a “just for fun” Texas Cigar Box Guitar.

Niel practices in his home studio/office as often as he can, saying, “it’s partly for stress relief and partly for mental stimulation.”

Until their lead singer moved away, Niel participated in a local band and is currently hoping to get another one started. Meanwhile, he spends time working on some John Prine songs, Spanish rhythms taught by musician mentor Tim Locke and a variety of blues.

Niel considers music to be “a wonderful form of communication and a unique form of individuality and collaboration.” For him personally, the best part of performing is audience reaction. Citing an event at Riverhill, he said, “Watching residents jiving and dancing to the likes of Jimmy Buffet and oldies like Kansas City is very rewarding. I love seeing people have fun.”

v

v

MARY AMBURN has lived in Riverhill since 1983. This amiable octogenarian has been singing since she was 12 and started out at the Zion Lutheran Church in Houston. She describes herself as a soprano-turned-alto and an avid music lover who favors classic oldies and country and western.

Mary sings at Kerrville’s Zion Lutheran Church and bemoans the fact that choir practice has been a challenge due to COVID-19. She looks forward to the day when the group will be together again as an ensemble.

10 Fall 2020

PHOTO BY PAUL STAFFORD

KAYLEE EDWARDS moved with her family to Riverhill in 2019 and has just entered her sophomore year at Tivy High School. Kaylee has been playing double bass for four years in the Hill Country Youth Orchestra.

“I was interested in learning to play something different from a violin,” she said. “We needed more bass players, so I decided to try out. I loved it because it was something different.”

Although she enjoys her music and plans to continue playing for fun, Kaylee aspires to be a vet.

“I love animals and want to help them.”

But music will remain in her life.

“I have always loved listening to music, and now I can play for others,” she said. “Music is my ‘go-to’ thing. It helps me relax but also motivates me.”

v

LYNETTE WEDIG is definitely a multi-talented musician. She plays piano, organ and digital keyboards and has been playing since her mom, a professional vocalist, introduced her to the world of music via piano lessons on her 8th birthday.

Lynette credits her piano teacher, a Juilliard School of Music grad, with helping her hone her style. After studies at the Del Mar School of Music in Corpus, Lynette spent decades as a church organist/ pianist.

She also played in a Dixieland/swing band and then a light jazz combo — all this while balancing a 30-year career as a teacher of high school and community college math.

Lynette moved to Riverhill from Corpus in June of 2019 and now plays for local groups and gatherings. She sings in the Hill Country Chorale and is a substitute organist/pianist for St. Paul’s United Methodist Church and Hunt United Methodist Church.

PHOTO BY PAUL STAFFORD

PHOTO BY BARBARA PAUL

v

CHUCK PAUL and Barbara, his wife of 47 years, have lived in Riverhill since 2017. His amazing professional musical biography is intertwined with four decades spent as an attorney in California and Connecticut.

We asked Chuck to summarize his storied background in music.

“I’ve been a performing musician for more than 55 years and have played guitar and keyboards in bands whose members included a co-founder of The Tokens (‘The Lion Sleeps Tonight’) and former members of Sly & the Family Stone, Graham Central Station and the Elvin Bishop Group.

“In 2000, I began a many-year relationship with the Fender Custom Shop, playing keyboards at Fender-sponsored events. I backed globally-famous guitarists including the first Fender Annual Blues Festival in May 2000 on Catalina Island that featured Buddy Guy, Paul Rodgers and Guitar Shorty.

“I’ve also played keyboards backing Brad Gillis (Night Ranger, Rubicon, Ozzy Osbourne), Dave Amato (REO Speedwagon), Tony Franklin (Whitesnake, The Firm, Kenny Wayne Shepherd), Rusty Anderson (Paul McCartney) and many, many others.

“Perhaps my most memorable performance was playing Hammond B3 organ and keyboards for the legendary Delaney Bramlett. I’ve also shared the stage with Neal Schon (Journey), Alex Ligertwood (Santana, Brian Auger), Jimmy Crespo (Aerosmith, Billy Squier, Rod Stewart), Marco Mendoza (Ted Nugent, Thin Lizzy) and Gary Hoey.

“At present, I enjoy performing with bands in Kerrville.”

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TIM LOCKE’S introduction to flamenco music came in his 20s, when living in Berkley, California.

It was the late ’60s and flamenco music was primarily the musical form used by gypsies in Andaluca, the lower part of Spain, so Tim headed there to study for a few years. Once the passion waned, he returned to his family and home in Mexico City, where he subsequently studied at and graduated from the University of the Americas in Puebla.

He took up work at a brokerage firm in Guadalajara and later moved to Canada to work in banking until retirement in 2013, when he and wife, Carol, moved to Kerrville.

Tim now has time to pursue his music again and is beginning to create new compositions.

He currently plays flamenco and modern American music with several Riverhill residents in the local Maggie’s House Band.

PHOTO BY PAUL STAFFORD

Riverhill Living 11

Neighborhood Brags Shelley Rogers learned to play drums in the third grade and has been a professional drummer for 25 years. She currently plays in her own band, Bluez Junction, as well as for church worship services.

Carol Holmes was trained as a classical pianist. She was organist, pianist and choir director at St. Paul’s in Brady for 10 years and was a member of Texas Master Chorale, Houston area (100 singers, 27-piece orchestra) for 18 years. She has toured Germany, Austria and Italy, performed in Salzburg Cathedral, St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice, and sang for the 10:00 Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. Carol is presently a member of the Hill Country Chorale, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church choir and sang at Christmas with the Symphony of the Hills, Kerrville.

Charley Chipman began his musical career playing trumpet in the Tivy Elementary School band. In the U.S. Air Force, while in the Band of the West, he also participated in the 539th Glee Club. In 2017, he formed an instrumental group and now plays for many functions in and around the Hill Country. He also participates in the First United Methodist Church choir.

Laura Shrader has been singing in school and church choirs since she was 5 years old. Through the Kerrville First United Methodist Church Choir tours, she was honored to sing in churches and cathedrals throughout Europe, including St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. “We also sang in Carnegie Hall in New York City,” she said.

“My favorite moments are still singing in worship each week for the glory of God.”

Duncan admires the now-restored cedar chest that belonged to Laura Shrader’s grandmother.

Greg Shrader took on the refinishing and restoration project during pandemic downtime.

12 Fall 2020

Works by nationally-acclaimed Western artist Robert Pummill, a Riverhill/Highridge resident, is now on exhibition at the Museum of Western Art. The display will continue through Sept.

19, 2020. Shown here is his “Early Morning on the Texas Trail.”

Did you know?

You can access all important information pertinent to YOUR property and YOUR property owner’s association at www.riverhillpoa.com.

James Horne plays the cornet. James played in Top Brass, a brass ensemble, for many years in Ruidoso, New Mexico, before moving to Kerrville to years ago.

Sharon Smith has been a choir member of First United Methodist Church for 25 years. She has also been involved with the Point Theatre for over 25 years as a performer and stage manager. All said all of these experiences has enriched her life tremendously.

Steve McFadden was inspired by the rhythms and percussion of Santana and began playing bongos while listening to their records.

He added several hand percussion instruments to his repertoire over the next 50 years. He became known as the “Gadjotman” while playing for the Daystar Project, a Christian jazz band he performed with for 10 years in Houston. Mostly recently, he’s enjoyed playing with other Riverhill musicians of Maggie’s House Band.

You can find things such as: upcoming meetings, past and current landscape projects, Yard of the Month, FAQs about garage sales, fences, outside storage, construction, animals and much more.

You can also find new construction and remodeling permit applications as well as YOUR CCRs and bylaws for the neighborhood.

We also have many links you may be interested in within the City of Kerrville and Kerr County.

Consider this website your “GO TO” place for all things Riverhill.

Most importantly, you can contact us directly from www.riverhillpoa.com. So log on and look around.

We love hearing from you!

LET’S LIGHT UP RIVERHILL! The Association of Property Owner’s of Riverhill

3rd Annual Christmas Decoration & Lighting Contest RULES: 1. Decorations/lights are to be ready for judging by December 13, 2020.

2. Under no circumstances will decoration/lights possess demeaning or inappropriate gestures, sayings, expressions, etc.

3. Prizes will be awarded to the top 3 entries 4. Entrants must fill out the registration below and submit to: andymagee1@me.com by December 1, 2020, or postmarked

by December 1 and sent to APOR, P.O. Box 293895, Kerrville, TX 78029 5. Applicants do not have to be members of the POA (although that would be nice!)

NAME _______________________________________________ ADDRESS ____________________________________________ EMAIL _______________________________________________ Nancy Watts has a brag about her new neighbors, Bud and Brenda Heimann, and the beautiful updates they’ve done to the exterior of their home at 513 Fairway Drive.

PHONE NUMBER _____________________________________

Riverhill Living 13

Love

WHERE YOU

live

Story by Lindsay Eastland / Photos by Tom Holden

The past few months at home have been eye-opening in many ways. I have seen more neighbors walking than ever before, kids pulling weeds and mowing lawns, a couple painting the entire exterior of their house, as well as people gardening and building fences.

When we are stuck at home, one of the only ways to manage (and stay sane!) is to get creative with our time. I have taken on a good handful of DIY projects myself. Being a doer by nature, I like to stay busy, but while we navigate a season of uncertainty, constantly adapting to the changes happening daily in the midst of a pandemic, I have also learned to appreciate the slower-paced lifestyle.

commonality in the love for similar qualities. Living a simpler life brings many new families and retirees to this area, whether in pursuit of a wonderful environment to raise their kids or a place to enjoy their golden years.

Seeking simplicity and comfort are deeply rooted in my nature, whether it be in my personal life or in the surroundings of my home. The passion to live simply does not have to sacrifice style though, and style does not have to sacrifice comfort. They can cohesively live together.

We are not rushing here or there nearly as much, trying to fill our time, we are doing the best we can to try to make the most of the time we have at home. I grew up in the city, living in Austin for over 20 years. Now, having been in the Kerrville area for 15 years, it has truly become home.

Repainting a room, switching out an area rug, or replacing furnishings can all make dramatic improvements to a space.

Paint is magic! A gallon goes a long way in giving a room a fresh new look.

I have grown quite fond of smalltown life, from the natural beauty that surrounds us, the supportive community of people and the simpler pace.

When I meet someone who has either lived here for years or recently relocated to the area, I often find a

14 Fall 2020

For me, I love a balance of homeyness, mixed in with modern design, and topped with a touch of vintage. Whatever your personal style may be, there are a variety of ways to incorporate it into your home, and it does not always have to take a lot of money or a total gut job to make it happen. Small changes can make big differences.

Interior and exterior photos are from the home of Darby and Tyler Campbell, above. For details, visit Lindsay Eastland Bloom Home Design www.bloomnewlife.com

Time to update the living room decor? It is amazing what a simple change of the furniture can do to update a room. I am also a big fan of foliage and florals, whether they are

real or faux. Flowers and houseplants are a simple way to bring in warmth and texture to a home.

If a renovation is what you want to pursue, try for a foundation that includes a basic color scheme. There is value in creating a neutral pallet with your decor, then layering in pops of color or seasonal pieces that can easily be switched out.

Throw pillows are an effortless way to change a style as well.

You can never have too many pillows! They come in a variety of patterns and colors, making them a go-to for easy decorating updates.

Thank you!!

Riverhill HOA, residents and volunteers –

YOU made this possible! #KerrCountyStrong

These are just a few simple tips to serve as helpful ways to approach the process of decorating. Whether you are looking to give a space a refresh or start from the ground up with a new build, what matters most is creating an environment that makes you feel right at home.

As we make it halfway through 2020, it is not at all what anyone could have imagined. Our lives have been drastically changed, and a new normal has set in. In the midst of all we are facing, let not our hearts be troubled. For there is beauty in the world and we are blessed to live in a wonderful, supportive neighborhood and community.

Working with people is a gift I get to enjoy in my home design business. I strive to work side-by-side with my clients, assisting them in seeking out what they want most in their home. From decorating and styling, to design consulting, I aspire to help people create a home that gives them joy and comfort, because when it all comes down to it, you are right where you are meant to be … so love where you live, and bloom where you are planted.

Claudia Richards, Program Director

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Riverhill Living 15

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Travel Tales

We have veteran friends and hunting friends we see every year, trading old stories and new adventures. ... We have collected many friends in life and visit any of them if they are within 50-100 miles of our travel route.

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On the road again Hank and Pam Ortega enjoy traveling the country in their home on wheels Story by Greg Shrader Photos by Tom Holden

W

hen an ancestor was one of 55 Canary Islanders who crossed the Atlantic in 1731 to establish the settlement San Fernando de Bexar in the new world, it’s easy to see how Riverhill resident Hank Ortega inherited the wanderlust gene.

Hank and his wife, Pam, are two of Riverhill ‘s most-traveled residents, traveling America’s highways in their pick-up, towing their home, a 38-foot toy hauler fifth-wheel trailer.

The Ortegas prefer their truck/trailer setup for several reasons. As the name implies, a toy hauler trailer allows them to load bicycles, an ATV and other “toys” into the back of the trailer so they can be readily deployed when they arrive at their destination.

16 Fall 2020

And they prefer towing their homeaway-from-home.

“Motor homes are mostly larger, but if they break down, there goes your home while it’s in the shop. I prefer towing so I can drop the rig anywhere and then explore the country in the pick-up,” Ortega said.

In non-pandemic times, the Ortegas spend much of the summer in the mountains of eastern Oregon. That’s no surprise; after serving as a Combat Medic with the 101st Airborne Division in Viet Nam, Hank met Pam in college, they were married and them spent the entire summer of 1974 on their honeymoon hiking the Sierra Nevadas.

The wanderlust force is strong in them.

In 2012, the Ortegas used their trailer as a base camp while looking for a place to retire and settle. They faithfully returned to the Kerrville area each year until they found their home in 2014.

Pam and Hank Ortega relax in their 38-foot toy hauler fifth-wheel trailer, which they use in their frequent travels around the country.

“We decided on Kerrville due to the resources here and the proximity to San Antonio without the congestion,” Ortega said. “The veteran community here is large, the HAM radio club is active, I have access to hunting and fishing and we enjoy the area.”

Since then, they have become active members of the Kerrville and Riverhill communities.

The Ortegas have several “regular trips” they make each year.

“Our trailer has a solar generation system installed by an itinerant installer who travels the country doing just that.

That allows us to stay in camp in the mountains of Eastern Oregon during archery season for elk for a month,” Ortega said.

The Ortegas also like to spend time each spring in Death Valley, hiking, exploring and rock-hounding outside the park while the temperature is manageable.

Along the way, the Ortegas use their travels to make new friends and visit old ones.

“We have veteran friends and hunting friends we see every year, trading old stories and new adventures. One pair of friends we met volunteering at Fleet Week in San Francisco. We have collected many friends in life and visit any of them if they are within 50-100

miles of our travel route,” he said. “We also spend a great deal of time with our grandchildren camping and teaching them outdoor skills.”

While those trips require planning and logistics, the Ortegas also enjoy spurof-the-moment trips, including trips to the Texas coast for fishing. Last year, they discovered the town of Saratoga in Wyoming.

“That tiny town had a city-owned hot spring heated pool and a campground for a few bucks a night. We explored the area, including Flaming Gorge Reservoir, and returned to our trailer each evening,” he said.

The flexibility of having a trailer and returning to their trailer after a day of exploring is a big plus for the Ortegas.

“Using our RV as a base camp helps us avoid the crowds and half-clean hotels. We have our own bed, our own cookware, our own menu and our own schedule,” Ortega commented on the benefits of traveling with a trailer.

They prefer boondocking, finding out-of-the-way places to stay, over using

RV parks.

Towing a travel trailer isn’t all wine and roses. Some of the problems the Ortegas encounter are traffic, bad roads and bad drivers.

According to Ortega, “The reality of owning an RV of any kind is that you have to tinker with it constantly, maintain it and fix it from time to time no matter how tight your maintenance schedule is.”

Before purchasing an RV, Ortega recommends you rent each type and size before you buy, and if you purchase one, be ready to apologize to your spouse after backing in.

Despite the challenges, the Ortegas are bonafide RVers.

“Waking up knowing there isn’t anyone within 20 miles, seeing the stars and teaching our grandkids how to navigate by them, taking them to places like Lava Beds National Monument and seeing their eyes light up when they see a small bug, bird or plant and recognize it are some of our most memorable experiences,” Ortega concluded.

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Riverhill Living 17

Cooking

with

In the Kitchen

Rhonda & Billy

Story by Nancy Foster / Photos by Paul Stafford

R

honda and Billy Taylor are a delightful couple who have lived in Riverhill since 2016 and are well immersed in Kerrville's business community.

Since 2002, Rhonda has been with the independent insurance agency Frizzell & Co., following years spent in the Banking and Trust Operations field. Billy, who first discovered Kerrville when recruited by his brother-in-law to help with the sale of homesites in Tierra Linda Ranch, now runs Taylor Properties, his own successful city-based real estate company.

When they’re not working, the Taylors seem to be happiest when they’re in the kitchen … together. Whether just for themselves or for entertaining friends or family, this charismatic duo finds preparing and serving fabulous meals a perfect way to spend quality time. They graciously shared with us some fun ways they do just that.

Billy Taylor is all smiles as he works in his kitchen.

At left, Rhonda and Billy Taylor work together in their kitchen as they get ready for one of their well-known dinner parties. The couple enjoys preparing meals for family and friends.

BILLY’S PANEÉD COD/HALIBUT 5-6 oz fresh cod fillets (or halibut filets) Flour Panko bread crumbs Konriko Gulf Coast seasoning blend or Old Bay

18 Fall 2020

Olive oil Butter Lime or lemon juice 1/4 cup milk 2 eggs

Lightly drizzle lime juice over filets and season with Gulf Coast seasoning.

Lightly dredge fillets in flour, then in milk/ egg mixture then in Panko bread crumbs (either seasoned or plain with your own seasonings).

Pan-fry over medium heat in about 1/2-inch of olive oil and a couple tablespoons of butter.

Cook about 4-5 minutes each side until fish is white and flaky. Do not overcook.

Serve with homemade tartar sauce or a buttershallot/caper-lemon sauce.

Q: How did it happen that you

Q: Do you have any “famous”

began to cook together?

dishes your guests request?

Fortunately and unfortunately, Billy’s and my favorite thing to do is to be with friends and eat good food. We just slowly began having gatherings and always try to fix something different.

I would probably have to say any of our seafood dishes.

Do you like to incorporate fresh veggies and fruits?

Q: Do you cook inside as well as

usually get most of our produce at Jenschke Farms on Lemos Street.

A:

outside?

A: Billy would have to be the head

chef both inside and out! Rhonda is simply the sous chef!

A:

Q:

A: We love fresh vegetables and

Q: Where do you find your recipes?

A: We both watch lots of cooking

A:

shows, and if we see something we think we’d like, we search for the recipe. We also cook several things we ate while growing up. It’s one way we preserve our family memories.

Q: Name your favorite dish that your

What is your ideal dinner party menu?

A: I love Billy’s Shrimp Étouffée, and

We had some friends over the other evening and had a Panéed Cod with our special tartar sauce,

Q: Do you have a particular cuisine

you enjoy cooking?

Billy loves cooking Cajun, while I love cooking Italian.

spouse prepares.

Billy loves my Chicken Spaghetti.

Q: A:

linguine with heirloom tomato and olive oil topping, fresh asparagus and a Caprese salad. Desserts are not our specialty, so a dear friend from Fredericksburg brought a freshly made Fredericksburg Peach Cobbler that we served with a little ice cream.

Q: Who does most of the cooking?

A:

Billy does most of the cooking, but regardless of who cooks, the other is always full of suggestions!

Q: Who does clean-up?

A: We both clean up!

Q:

Do you have a particular source for the wines you serve?

A:

A friend of ours owns the Lost Draw Cellars in Fredericksburg, and we often serve his wine. With our seafood dishes, we usually serve their Rosé, nicely chilled.

Riverhill Living 19

Our Club Members Are Our Passion Our remarkable golf club started with a friendship between golf legend Byron Nelson and renowned course designer Joe Finger. That tradition continues today with the friendships still formed and strengthened on the rolling hills of Riverhill Country Club just as Byron Nelson had hoped.

You are invited to be a part of that tradition and the present celebration of the game of golf, fabulous dining and events, world-class tennis, swim and fun for your entire family.

Many families have taken part in what Riverhill has become over the past 112 years when it began as the mansion at Cedarcrest. Many families return generation after generation to enjoy the important history of this estate and the wonderful part the club continues to play in their lives.

RiverHill Country Club has several membership packages that include resident, senior, junior, corporate and non-resident.

Summer Fun for the Entire Family!

Riverhill Country Club • RiverhillCC.com • 896-1400 •100 Riverhill Club Lane • Kerrville Please contact Membership Director Bryan Hargrove at (830) 896-1400 x2230 for more information about memberships and initiation fees.

20 Fall 2020