Publisher, Editor-In-Chief
One afternoon while visiting Kindler’s Gem Jewelers, Gerda took me aside and said, “Come here, I have something to show you!”
I am used to the girls showing me pieces of new jewelry or designs from market but Gerda lit up with pride over her framed award she pointed to.
Kindler’s had received the Texas Treasure Business Award from the Texas Historical Commission. The award is given to businesses that have been in Texas for 50 years or longer. It meant a lot to her and her daughters to display the award not only for being in business for such a long time but that they have persevered through Covid after a move to the Central Texas Marketplace, and she did it alongside her daughters, a true generational run business.
My daughter, Katherine, and I had the honor of attending the final awards banquet hosted by the McLennan County Historical Society, and being in true family-owned business fashion, Katherine did her first paid editorial intern assignment for the magazine; she took the photos at the event. I was
such a proud Mama that day! You can read more about the Texas Treasures Business Awards on page 80, and also about other great family-owned businesses starting on page 64.
We’re also celebrating the great outdoors this issue. It’s no doubt summer, and Waco has become a mecca for things to do! Seriously, I am not kidding. Check out page 85 where we have dedicated 19 pages of fun-filled activities for families of all ages, including grandparents, to have an amazing time outdoors, many of which are on the water. Four families went and tested four experiences — the Waco Tours River Cruise on the Brazos, Camp Fimfo, Waco Surf and “The Lone Star” Horseback Ride at Brazos Bluff — and looking at the photos, you will want to book your next Waco staycation at one of them because all things fun are right In Our Own Backyard.
I can’t wait to hear which one your family chooses.
Michelle