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A BIGGER, BETTER ANIMAL SHELTER
www.ourtowntempletx.com

A BIGGER, BETTER ANIMAL SHELTER

Plans to expand Temple's animal adoption center are in full swing, and Our Town has details on the important project.

Oct 14, 2021
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A BIGGER, BETTER ANIMAL SHELTER
www.ourtowntempletx.com

THURSDAY OCTOBER 14, 2021

“We want to create a place where animals can play and for folks to spend time with the animals they may adopt. There will be an area where people can bring their current dogs to see how they interact with one they may be considering for adoption.”

An architect’s rendering shows the outside play and meet-and-greet areas at an expanded Temple Animal Shelter. The expansion project is currently in the design stage and will work begin in upcoming months.

By DAVID STONE, Our Town Temple exclusive

Plans to expand Temple’s animal shelter are in the design stage and the facility likely will be operational within a year, city officials said today.

The new facility will double the number of spaces for stray and lost pets, but the biggest change will be in animal comfort.

“The expanded facility will have an HVAC system so we can control climate conditions inside the kennel area,” said Temple Police Chief Shawn Reynolds, who also oversees the city’s animal services and shelter. “Right now, we just have some big fans there. This will help us better regulate the temperatures.”

The current shelter facility can hold 36 dogs in the kennel area. Expansion will increase capacity to 76. The facility likely will remain a “limited kill” facility, but greater capacity allows shelter workers more time to find suitable homes for their furry guests.

“We will add two new kennel rooms — one on the north side of the building, one on the west side,” Reynolds said. “Each will hold 20 dogs.”

Reynolds said the shelter’s cat room will be relocated and expanded as well.

In addition to more holding space, the expanded shelter will include a new meet-and-greet area so people can get to know animals they may adopt.

“There will be two meet-and-greet areas, and they will be partially covered to protect against the sun and rain,” Reynolds said. “We haven’t decided on the turf yet — we may go with an artificial surface or just grass.”

“We want to create a place where animals can play and for folks to spend time with the animals they may adopt. There will be an area where people can bring their current dogs to see how they interact with one they may be considering for adoption.”

One of the biggest changes to the shelter will be the front lobby. Right now, customers walk directly into an office setting. That will change.

“The new shelter will have a dedicated lobby area with a place to fill out adoption papers,” Reynolds said. “There will be separate offices for shelter staff.”

The lobby will include a service counter and a small retail shop where new owners can buy pet essentials such as leashes and collars. More parking spaces and new landscaping also are part of expansion plans.

Funding for the project was approved earlier this year as part of $54.9 million in certificates of obligation issued for a variety of projects.

The majority of the money will be used for construction projects on Hartrick Bluff Road, the Outer Loop West and on North and South Pea Ridge Road.

Unlike most forms of municipal debt, certificates of obligation do not require voter approval. 

According to Reynolds, expansion is needed to keep pace with the city’s growth.

“The shelter houses stray impounded animals that require a hold before they can be adopted,” he said. “The shelter also accepts owner surrenders for Temple residents. The expansion will allow us to separate strays on hold from animals available for adoption.”

An improved entrance will greet visitors to the new Temple Animal Shelter.

A redesigned lobby will include a pet essentials retail shop and space to fill out adoption paperwork.

This rendering shows the new entry to the Temple Animal Shelter kennels.

Meet-and-greet areas will be partially covered and will be equipped for fun.


Building Temple Together program

Our Town Temple

Competitive grant funds are now available for area non-profit agencies through the Building Temple Together Program.

“The city of Temple developed the Building Temple Together Program to support the efforts of local agencies,” Director of Housing & Community Development, Nancy Glover, said. “Temple is fortunate to have a variety of non-profits that give back to our residents and contribute to community development, so we are excited to extend this opportunity to these organizations.”

The city has allocated Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funding for this program. Funds will be awarded on a competitive basis to organizations administering qualified services to achieve specific outcomes that are in alignment with the City of Temple’s Housing & Community Development Consolidated Plan.

The online application will become available on Friday, Oct. 15 at templetx.gov/grants. The submission deadline is Monday, Nov. 15 at 3 p.m.

Area non-profit agencies must provide programs and/or services within the City of Temple to be eligible for this program. Additionally, agencies must meet all requirements of the federal regulations regarding the proper use of CDBG grant funds.

Visit templetx.gov/grants to complete an application and learn more about the eligibility requirements. For additional information, email grants@templetx.gov or call (254) 298-5456.


Shriek Fest: Werewolves at Stillhouse

Our Town report

Today’s Shriek Fest entry is one you’ve probably heard before. Still, it’s a good one.

Over the years, there have been some strange animal sightings in Bell County.

Back in the early 80s, emus were occasionally reported. A much promised emu market never materialized and many ranchers who had tried their luck at raising the big birds with big appetites simply opened pen doors and let them loose. There also have been numerous sightings of cougars roaming for food, especially around Morgan’s Point.

And, of course, there are wild hogs causing havoc across the state, and seeing them is quite common in these parts.

But, in 2000, a Fort Hood soldier who goes by Heath claims to have seen very uncommon critters — werewolves. 

An avid fisherman and duck hunter, Heath found a choice but isolated location at Stillhouse Hollow for both activities.

“My fishing spot was down a gravel road, and you had to park in a small clearing about 300 yards from the lake through heavy thickets,” he said. “I knew there were feral hogs in the area … I always had my 12 gauge with me at the lake just in case.”

As the sun began to set, the soldier packed up his fishing gear and started toward his car. Soon, he stopped in his tracks.

“I heard a screeching a short distance away, and my first thought was that two wild hogs were fighting. They weren’t hogs.”

At the edge of the thicket he saw two large hairy beasts fighting. Trying to frighten the animals, the soldier yelled. They froze and turned their attention to him.

“They were sort of behind a bush,” he said. “They stood on their back legs, and used their arms to push down limbs so they could see me clearly.”

The soldier said the animals had the body of a muscular man and a canine-like face. Both had what appeared to be dried blood matted into their fur.

“I really couldn’t see them from the waist down because of brush, but their ears were standing up kind of like Batman.”

Walking back to the vehicle he came across two deer carcasses. Both had their heads missing but were not field dressed. Their genitals were removed, and the meat was untouched. Baffled, the soldier figured it was poachers and headed to the parking area.

He was met at his car by a game warden who immediately sensed that the soldier was a bit shaken.

The warden questioned the man about what he had seen and asked the soldier to show him where he had been. He repeatedly asked if he had seen anything unusual. The soldier kept quiet about his encounters.

“The officer didn’t say anything, but I think he knew what was out there.”

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WHAT’S HAPPENING, CENTRAL TEXAS?

October 15, Friday - Dancing music with Hyway Traveler at Bo’s Barn. 8  p.m.

October 16, Saturday — Little Joe’s 81st birthday bash. The celebration begins at 4 p.m. and the first band — Tyler Bigley & The Copano Cowboys — performs at 5pm. At 6 p.m., Eric Flores will be on stage, followed by David Marez. Following an hour-and-a-half set by popular crooner Bobby Pulido, Little Joe y La Familia, plus many friends, will perform at 10:30 p.m.

October 16, Saturday - Van Cliburn Recital featuring Daniel Hsu. Sue & Frank Mayborn Performing Arts Center, Belton. 7:30 p.m.

October 16, Saturday - West Temple Oktoberfest. 3 West Alehouse & Grill. 11 a.m.

October 16, Saturday - 35 South burns up the dance floor at Bo’s Barn. 9 p.m.

October 16, Saturday - St. Luke Fest 2021, raffle, petting zoo, live music, carnival games, food vendors, silent auction, bingo and more. St. Luke’s Catholic Church. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

October 16, Saturday - Oktoberfest 2021, Barrow Brewing Company, Salado, noon to 10:30 p.m.

October 16, Saturday - Trunk-or-Treat at RE/MAX Temple-Belton at the intersection of South 31st and Canyon Creek. The event will be in the parking lot behind the building. Ghoulish games, terrifying treats and bone-chilling candy. 3-6 p.m.

October 16, Saturday - Cookie Decorating. Blackmon Community Center. 10 a.m.

October 16, Saturday - Michael Salgado at Schoepf’s BBQ in Belton, 6 p.m.

October 18-23 - The Rocky Horror Picture Show, The Beltonian, Belton. 6-8 p.m.

October 19, Tuesday - UMHB Opera/Musical Theatre Scenes. A College of Visual & Performing Arts presentation. Sue & Frank Mayborn Performing Arts Center, Baugh Performance Hall. 7:30 p.m.

October 22, Friday - Unity Fest on the street in front of Ras Kitchen. Featuring Alex Marley and many other acts. 4 p.m. to midnight.

October 22-24 - “Leading Ladies” at Temple Civic Theatre. Ticket link: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?actions=4&p=1

October 23, Saturday - Don Gregory Memorial Lions Club Golf Tournament. Sammons Golf Course. Contact Jeffrey Thigpen Thigpen.jeff@gmail.com to register or for sponsorship opportunities. 4-person scramble begins at 8:30 a.m.

October 23, Saturday - Oktoberfest 2021, Barrow Brewing Company, Salado, noon to 10:30 p.m.

October 23, Saturday - Fall Food Truck Festival, 3524 FM 2484 in Salado. Proceeds benefit Salado VFD. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m..

October 26, Tuesday - Military & First Responders Appreciation Day. Drive through hamburger box dinner for active duty military, veterans and first responders. Central Fire Station in Temple. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or until food is gone.

October 26, Tuesday - The College of Visual & Performing Arts presents the UMHB Concert Choir and the Women’s Chorus. Sue & Frank Mayborn Performing Arts Center, Baugh Performance Hall. 7:30 p.m.

October 28-31 - “Leading Ladies” at Temple Civic Theatre. Ticket link: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?actions=4&p=1

October 29, Friday - Uncasing of the Colors for the 607-member 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment of the 3rd Squadron, 36th Infantry Division, now headquartered at the Texas Army National Guard on Airport Road in Temple. Santa Fe Plaza, 10 a.m.

October 29, Friday - 1st Annual "Monster Mash Ballroom Bash" at Arthur Murray Temple. Join us for a few tricks, some yummy treats, and lots of dancing! Costumes are encouraged, and anyone is welcome — no dance experience needed, $15 per person. RSVP (254) 231-3444 7:45 p.m.

October 29, Friday - Calling all boys and ghouls! Don’t forget to stop by the Monster Mash at the Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum. Learn a few new dance moves at the Monster Mash prom. Grab a treat or two and have a spooktacular time. 6-8 p.m.

October 30, Saturday - The city of Temple will host Fright Fest from 6-8 p.m. at Santa Fe Plaza (301 W Avenue A). Attendees will be able to trick-or-treat, enter a costume contest and enjoy a fire dance show. This event is free to the public and registration is not required.

October 30, Saturday - Barktoberfest, Dog costume contest at 5:30; adoptable dogs on site. Barrow Brewing Co., Salado. 1-7 p.m.

October 30, Saturday - Barktoberfest, Dog costume contest at 5:30; adoptable dogs on site. Barrow Brewing Co., Salado. 1-7 p.m.

October 30, Saturday - Bulls & BBQ, Live bull riding followed by concert with Jake Worthington and Keith Braxton. Schoepf’s BBQ, Belton, Noon.

October 30, Saturday - Tablerock’s Fright Trail. One-half mile walking trail presents thrill, chills and haunting skits. Salado. 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

October 30, Saturday - BooCru at Crusader Stadium. UMHB in Belton. Wear your Halloween costume to the UMHB v. Belhaven game. Trick or Treat at 10 locations inside the stadium during the first half. Halftime parade of costumes on the football field. Noon.

October 30, Saturday - Trunk or Treat. VFW Post 1820, 3302 Airport Road in Temple. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in parking lot.

October 31, Sunday - Halloween! Have fun, be safe.

October 31, Sunday - Edward Scissorhands, free movie at Cultural Activities Center. In this 1990 film, a scientist builds an animated human being but dies before he can finish the assembly, leaving the young man with a freakish appearance accentuated by the scissor blades he has instead of hands. The event will include a pre and post-movie discussion with Professor Dr. Joseph Taberlet. 2 p.m.

November 4, Thursday - Spur Classic Sporting Clay Shoot, Weber Shooting Range. 8 a.m.

November 4, Thursday - Brown Bag Bingo, Sammons Community Center Bring a brown bag with a small, non-food Bingo prize inside. 5 p.m.

November 6, Saturday - Chris Hillman, Texas Music Series,Cultural Activities Center. 7:30 p.m.

November 7, Sunday - Temple Symphony Piano Trio featuring Suzanne Jacobson on violin, Cory Blaise on cello and Kiyoshi Tamagawa on piano. Cultural Activities Center. 3 p.m.

November 11, Friday - The College of Visual & Performing Arts presents One Voice in concert. Sue & Frank Mayborn Performing Arts Center, Baugh Performance Hall. 7:30 p.m.

November 11-14 - "Our Town," a Pulitzer Prize winning play by Thornton Wilder, Temple High School, Thursday-Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. More information at: http://www.ThespiansR.Us

November 13, Saturday - Market in the Vines. Take a walk through the vines and shop with over 50 vendors! Free to the public. 3 Texans Winery. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

November 13, Saturday - A Night in Vegas…St. Mary’s Catholic School Casino Night. Live auction, silent auction, games, drawings. Benefits the school’s educational programs. Cultural Activities Center. 6 p.m.

November 14, Sunday - St. Mary’s Traditional Turkey Dinner, KC Hall at 2218 W. Ave D, limited seating or to go plates, $12 plate includes Turkey, dressing, roll, gravy, coleslaw, green beans, cranberry sauce and dessert. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

November 18, Thursday - Taste of the Holidays 2021: A Candy Cane Christmas. Mayborn Convention Center. 10:30 a.m.

November 19 through January 15 - Facing the Inferno wildfire photo exhibit opens at Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum.

November 20 - Casey Donahew at Bell County Expo Center’s Assembly Hall.

December 3-5 — Disney’s Aladdin Jr. at Temple Civic Theatre.

December 4, Saturday - Barrow Brewing Christmas Market, Salado. Noon.

December 4, Saturday - Temple Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert featuring soprano Priscilla Santana and tenor Brian Joyce. Temple High School. 7:30 p.m.

December 6, Monday - The 75th Annual Christmas Parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. This year's theme is “The Magic of a Traditional Christmas." Details will be made available on templeparks.com.

December 10-12 — Disney’s Aladdin Jr. at Temple Civic Theatre.

December 31 - January 1 - Texas Elite Pole Vaulting. The Expo Explosion, the second largest indoor pole vaulting event in the country. Bell County Expo Center’s Garth Arena.

December 11, Saturday — Downtown Temple Holiday Market & Food Truck Frenzy, 2 N. Main Street. 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Have an event you would like to promote? Email info to OurTownTemple@gmail.com with “What’s Happening” in the subject line. Keep it short and sweet — what, when and where. You may include a short description. You must include a phone number for verification purposes. The phone number will not be published unless requested by submitter.

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