Morgan & Kate Cook

I've been living in Belton since 2011, having moved from East Texas to continue my career as a Funeral Director. Kate, on the other hand, relocated from California to attend UMHB. We met through our mutual love for adventure and the outdoors, initially connecting through a Jeep club called "5 Hills Jeeps." At that time, I was driving a red 2006 Jeep Wrangler, while Kate was often seen in her vintage 1966 Jeepster Commando. Our official meeting took place at Schoepf’s Summer Concert Series, where we bonded over our shared love for Jeeps, live music, and the open road. Since 2013, Belton has been our home. Despite its rapid growth, the town has retained its small-town charm, with beautiful architecture, rich history, and expansive farmlands.

We appreciate the local businesses, from restaurants to antique shops, and value the supportive community. We enjoy shopping locally at the HEB, farmers markets, and small shops, which helps us stay sustainable while growing our own businesses. Our neighbors have become friends who we can rely on, adding to our love for Belton.

Giving back to the community is important to us. So we took the plunge to step-up and take over hosting the monthly Hot-Rod night and re-brand it into what is now known as “Pistons on the Creek” at The Historic Gin Restaurant and Bar, where families gather with their cars—regardless of make, model, or year—to enjoy live music, great food, and a showcase of cool cars, fostering connections over shared interests.