Hooray Central Texas January 2022

January 2022

Central Texas

FREE!

See article pg. 7

New Year 365 NEW DAYS 365 NEW CHANCES

To Smile

Tjel Olson, D.M.D.

General Dentistry Limited to Children

Vernesha Lockhart, D.D.S.

Board-Certiied Pediatric Dentist

Alex Piedra, D.D.S.

Board-Eligible Pediatric Dentist

Aaron Blackwelder, D.D.S., M.S. Board-Certiied Pediatric Dentist 1121 Lake Air Dr., Waco, TX 254-772-8330 www.WacoKidsDental.com

Dyslexia Therapy Services for All Ages NOW PROVIDING: DYSLEXIA EVALUATIONS by a licensed dyslexia therapist DYSLEXIA THERAPY SERVICES SPECIALIZED READING INTERVENTION for all ages.

Call for more information.

Speech & Language Therapy

Free Screenings

Medicaid and most insurances accepted.

Specializing in the treatment of: Autism Articulation Oral Expression Auditory Comprehension Reading Deficits Language Deficits Stuttering Developmental Delays

Academic Tutoring Math Reading Study Skills Writing Spelling Comprehension

Tutoring services are performed by certified teachers and are conducted during or after school hours.

Phone: 254-235-1850 Fax: 254-235-4879

info@therapygroupofwaco.com www.therapygroupofwaco.com

January Index by Category

Martial Arts

Art Programs/Studios Practically Pikasso.....................................12

Family Martial Arts.....................................13

Baby Furniture

Museums

Once Upon a Child......................................21 Smarty Pants Resale Boutique.................15

Historic Waco Foundation...........................5

Children’s Clothing

China Spring Country Store.......................15

Once Upon a Child......................................21 Smarty Pants Resale Boutique.................15

Consignment & Resale Shops Once Upon a Child......................................21 Smarty Pants Resale Boutique.................15

Dance Studios All That Jazz Academy of Dance................21 Expressions Dance Studio.........................17 Joy’s School of Dance................................19 Laurie’s Stepping Out Studio......................6

Dental Care/Orthodontics Bellmead Kid’s Dentistry............................9 Dr. Stephen Brandt Pediatric Dentistry.....20 Smile at the World......................................24 Temple Kids Dental....................................23 Waco Kids Dental........................................2

Education/Child Care Central Texas 4C, Inc.................................17 Bosque Valley Children’s Services............18 First Baptist Waco Preschool.....................10 New Beginnings Learning Academy..........19

Events Waco Family Fun Fest.................................8

Sports / Fitness 610 Fit Training Studio...............................20 Woodway Family Center.............................15 YMCA of Central Texas...............................20

Gymnastics & Cheerleading Flips Gymnastics........................................12 Powerhouse Cheer & Fitness.....................6 Texas Dynasty Cheer & Gymnastics..........20

Horseback Riding / Lessons Melanie’s Pony Parties...............................5

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Outdoor Play Systems Party Planning & Supplies Baylor University McLane Stadium...........19 Dart’Em Up.................................................10 Enchanted Kingdom Parties & Events......21 Expressions Dance Studio.........................17 Family Martial Arts.....................................13 Flips Gymnastics........................................12 Joy’s School of Dance................................19 Little Land Play Gym...................................17 Melanie’s Pony Parties...............................5 Only Believe Parties & Play Center............21 Powerhouse Cheer & Fitness.....................6 Practically Pikasso.....................................12 Skate Waco.................................................12 Sweet Dreams Slumber Parties................18 Tooty Tot Children’s Entertainment...........10 YMCA of Central Texas...............................20

Photographers Sharla Kay Photography..............................5

Services Because of You 3D/4D Ultrasound............9 Bell County Public Health District.............20 Forever Families.........................................11 Heart O’ Texas Federal Credit Union.........21 Neat as a Pin..............................................21

Therapy Services Bosque Valley Children’s Services............18 Focus Behavioral Associates.....................21 Little Land Play Gym...................................17 Rodgers Speech, Hearing & Educational Services............6 Therapy Group of Waco...............................3

Toys & Books Once Upon a Child......................................21 Smarty Pants Resale Boutique.................15

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Pony Parties

Little Horses, BIG Fun! for Fa mi

Birthday Parties Bounce House Petting Zoo Special Events Riding Lessons

ly

Publisher: Michele Berger Creative Director: Jerri Denson Office Manager: Melissa Talbert

Host your next party in our climate controlled arena!

Or, we can bring ponies to you!

Contributing Writer: Jessa McClure

Call to schedule an event or riding lessons.

Advertising Information: Michele Berger (254)723-3696

254-654-9481 www.MelaniesPonyParties.com

12988 Moffat Rd, Temple, TX

Next Deadline February 4th For March & April Issues Contact us Phone: (254)723-3696 office@bergerpublishing.com

On the Cover: Dart Em Up Foam Dart Battle Photo by Heather Bonham Photography

Find Our Dog Max Hidden Inside!

254.716.8337 Smile@SharlaKayPhotography.com www.SharlaKayPhotography.com | 600 Lake Air Dr. Waco, TX

Hooray For Family™ 2022. All copy, photographs and information contained herein is protected by copyright and is not to be reproduced.

Publisher reserves the right to decline any advertisements.

@WacoBabyWhisperer

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WORLD-CLASS TRAINING FACILITY AND STAFF! CHEER - TUMBLE - FITNESS

After School Programs Birthday Parties Open Gym: Fridays - 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

907 E. 13th Ave., Belton (across from Summer Fun)

254-939-9900

www.powerhousecheer-fitness.com RODGERS

Speech, Hearing & Educational Services

Is your child having trouble with reading, sounding out words or comprehension?

We Can Help!

Institute of Language, Literacy, Reading & Math Connecting the Sounds of Language for Stronger Communication & Reading

Patient Care Emphasis

Now Hiring Speech Therapists!

Reading programs to fit your child’s needs Speech Therapy | Oral Motor Training Ca

Autism Dyslexia Language Delays & Deficits Hearing Impairment Oral Expression Reading Deficits Articulation Alternative Communication

Most Insurance Accepted

254-526-8255

ll About Your Child’s Program Today!

www.rshes.com | 2201 South W.S. Young, Ste. 112A, Killeen, TX | 1612 Austin Avenue, Suite B, Waco, TX

Register Now!

Ballet . Tap . Jazz . Pointe

No Registratio n Fee!

“Quality Dance Training with the Patience Your Child Deserves”

Cell: 254-744-1310 6

254-772-7551 w w w. H o o r a y F o r F a m i l y. c o m

Featured Cover Spotlight

By Jessa McClure

Photos by Heather Bonham Photography

Neon-clad kids and adults run behind brightly colored bunkers with blasters in hand, ready to pelt their friends and family with a slew of foam darts. These partygoers are about to experience the fun of Dart Em Up Waco, an indoor family entertainment center that features foam dart battle arenas.

Owners, Eric and Nora Zadnik are ready to give Central Texas residents a place to play that is not only fun for all ages but is also a place to come together as a family or with friends away from distractions.

“We’ve been to a lot of parties where family members are on their phones and not engaged with each other,” Eric Zadnik said.

“So, it’s really fun to watch parents [at our location] go from the sidelines to grabbing a blaster and diving behind bunkers with their kids.”

The couple wants patrons of Dart Em Up Waco to have a completely immersive experience when they enter the doors of their entertainment center on Robinson Rd., off of Loop 340.

“When you come in, the employees walk you through the whole process,” Nora Zadnik said. “It’s always moving, it’s always organized, the music is playing; it’s one of the most fun things you’ll ever do.”

Dart Em Up Waco has one large arena and one smaller arena and can be booked for birthday parties, corporate events, team building activities and more. Patrons can also walk in and pay or register online for an hour of play. The entertainment center also includes an arcade with a store for redeeming prizes and is slated to offer beer, wine and concession stand snacks.

And if you’re looking for a fun date night activity, Dart Em Up Waco also hosts Adult Nights on Saturdays.

While giving Waco area residents a great place to play and be entertained is part of the Zadnik’s vision, they also want to make a difference in the community with their business.

“We have partnered with Foster Village and the Isaiah 1:17 house to provide free birthday parties for local foster kids,” Nora said. “Our other goal is to hire kiddos that are aging out of the system. We want to mentor them and help them be successful in life.”

For more information about this entertainment center and the packages they offer, visit www.dartemup.com, call (254) 836-6124 or stop by 1208 N. Robinson Dr., Waco, TX 76706.

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Coupons Discounts Inside scoop on events Sales Freebies Enter to win announcements & MORE!

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Go to www.hoorayforfamily.com Click on the Newsletter on Homepage w w w. H o o r a y FSign-Up o r F a m i l y. c oIcon m

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You Have All the Fun, We’ll Do All the Work!

All blasters, darts, gear, yard sign, setup & pick up included!

Birthday Parties Church Events Team Building After School Programs Field Trips

Indoor location

opening in Robinson soon!

Spots will fill fast!

To pre-book your spring birthday party visit our website or message on FB!

MOBILE UNIT RENTAL PACKAGE: $325 Up to 20 participants | Referee additional

www.DartemUp.com @dartemup-waco

RESERVE TODAY! 2548366124

Like & follow us for a chance win a party package! @dartemup.waco

First Baptist Preschool & Parent’s Day Out

4 Large Playgrounds • State-Licensed • Field Trips • Chapel 6 Weeks - Pre-K • Christian Curriculum Texas School Readiness Certiication Full-Time Programs - 7:15 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Parent’s Day Out Preschool - Tues. - Thurs. 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Summer Camp for Children Completing Pre-K & Kindergarten

254-756-6933

Children’s Entertainment

Birthday Parties Special Events Face Painting Photos Packages Available Mascot Characters

500 Webster

www.fbcwaco.org

254-338-3524

kidspartiesandmore@yahoo.com Visit us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/tootytot254 10

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FOREVER

FA M I L I E S

Community partners helping local children find a brighter future

By Lindsay Liepman

The nine-year-old little girl would flourish in a home where family members spent quality time together building a strong foundation.

Kennedy has so much joy and loves to make others laugh. She is thoughtful and kind and would love to start the new year with a forever family. If you’d like to learn more about adopting Kennedy or the thousands of foster children looking for a forever family, go to www.heartgallerytexas.com.

Photography by Dunlap Portrait

Kennedy

Kennedy is a bright child full of imagination, with a smile that lights up the room. She loves playing mermaid princess and coming up with creative stories.

She is also an excellent artist who likes to draw and color and a passionate singer and dancer.

MODERN MEDIA COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT

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FLIPS

GYMNASTICS

Quality Gymnastics for All Ages

Enroll Now for Classes!

28 Years in

Waco!

Birthday Parties Recreational Classes Cheer/Tumble Classes Tumbling Classes Preschool Field Trips

www.FlipsWaco.com 6933 Woodway Dr., Waco 254-776-2150

254-776-2200

4310 West Waco Drive (in Brazos Place Center)

www.practicallypikassowaco.com

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Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri., 1 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday, 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Sunday, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Start the New Year off strong with Self-Confidence, Self-Esteem & Self-Discipline!

Family Martial Arts THE FAMILY THAT KICKS TOGETHER STICKS TOGETHER!

Martial Arts for All Ages Starting at 18 Months!

Mention this ad and receive a FREE 30-day V.I.P. Pass!

Two Locations!

7005 Woodway Dr., Woodway, TX 254-772-KICK (5425) (across from Hollywood Theatre)

10201 China Spring Rd., Waco, TX 254-836-0999 (across from McDonalds)

www.familymartialartsoftexas.com Photo by Brigham Mayyeld Photography

Your One-Stop Resource for all Things Kids & Family!

Activities & Classes After School Activities Enter to Win Events Calendar Newsletter Summer Camps Weekly Contests

www.HoorayforFamily.com

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Local Company with Great Service

Give the Gift of Endless Play!

www.ChinaSpringCountryStore.com

Resale Boutique

Be a

Shop with us!

We pay CA$H or CREDIT on your gently used baby equipment • bouncers • pack & plays cribs • high chairs • and so much more!

We accept baby clothes up to a child’s size 20 and maternity clothes!

AS K A BO U T O U R L OYA LT Y P RO GRA M!

4316 W. Waco Drive next to la bella salon and jason’s deli Connect with us!

www.smartypantswaco.com

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Ballet Pointe Tap Jazz Contemporary Hip-Hop

Scheduled 2-hr. Play Sessions Little Learners Classes | Parents’ Night Out Sensory Art Classes | Play Groups Spring & Summer Camps | Birthday Parties Physical Therapy | Speech Therapy | Occupational Therapy

Acrobatics Pom Musical Theatre

*No waiting list!

Waco 254-572-8890

1201 Hewitt Dr. Ste. 107, Waco, TX

Temple 254-231-3752

254-776-1672

4311 S. 31 St., Ste. 105, Temple,TX st

16200 Badger Ranch Blvd., Waco www.expressionsdance.studio

Visit our website to schedule!

Owner/ Instructor Jenni Holley, B.A. Dance & Theatre Certified Dance Masters of America

www.littlelandplaygym.com

“Community Choices in Children’s Care”

Want their feet on the right path for school readiness?

Now Accepting Applications for Enrollment & Employment for the 2021 -2022 school year.

Early Literacy Program | Texas School Ready Participant Applications may be submitted online for enrollment at: Paulette.Jeter@ct4c.org, for employment at: Terra.Scott@ct4c.org, or to the lock box at the locations listed below.

“We are committed to building stronger Central Texas communities, one child and family at a time.”

Head Start is a Pre-School program for ages 0 - 5 years (including prenatal moms), also including children with disabilities.

Head Start es un programa de Pre Escolar para las edades de 0 - 5 incluyen a niños con discapacidades.

www.CentralTexas4C.org

Services provided: Social Educational Dental Nutritional Health Disability

Main Office, Temple: 504 N. 5th St. Temple: 1100 S. 33rd St. Killeen: 802 N. 2nd St. Belton: 501 E. 4th Ave.

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254-778-0489 254-215-6178 254-501-9232 254-215-3790 17

~ Habla Espanol

Where our children’s future begins!

Bosque Valley Children’s Services We serve children at home, in daycares, Head Start centers, or our conveniently located clinic.

Child Care Center Now Offering Drop-In Services Call for more information.

Speech & Language Therapies Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy 254-235-2430

*Medicaid & most private insurances accepted.

2124 N. 25th St., Waco, TX

www.bvchildrensservices.com

Let us plan your next sleepover!.

Birthdays | Holidays | Just Because Sleepovers Our parties include: tents, air mattresses, bedding, fairy lights, table trays & themed decor.

Our themes include: Boho, Flamingo, Gaming, Glamping, Mermaid, Movie Night & Unicorn, with more themes on the way!

254.466.2319 | sweetdreamsk@yahoo.com 18

@sweetdreamsslumberpartiestx

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Four Locations!

Teaching the "Joy" of Dance for Over 40 Years, a Waco Tradition Ballet Tap Jazz Contemporary Hip Hop Modern Musical Theater Dance/Drill Team Prep Mommy & Me Ballet Preschool Combo Age one - adult

Award Winning Dance Studio

969 Marlandwood Dr., Temple, TX | 254.744.1842 403 N Bumblebee Dr., Little River Academy, TX | 254.982.0200 711 Lovers Lane, Gatesville, TX | 254.865.7380 213 N Central, Troy, TX | 254.982.0200

Owner/ Director: Natalie George Two Convenient Locations 7560 Bosque Blvd. & 6714 Woodway Dr.

www.NewBeginningsLearningAcademy.com

www.jsodwaco.com

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(254) 776-1797

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Register Now!

Thanks Waco!

254-776-6248

Voted Best Cheer Program & Best Place to Host a Playgroup

800 Schroeder Ste. C, Waco, TX

www.txdynasty.com

Seal out tooth decay.

Birth - 18 years Comprehensive Orthodontics Available

254-690-3380

1201 South W.S. Young Dr., Killeen www.KilleenPediatricDentistry.com

610 Fit Training Studio Let

buy the apples

Empowering you to BE STRONG through faith & fitness

Aerobics Personal Training Small Group Personal Training Nutrition Coaching

so you can buy the other things she needs.

Call your local WIC today!

Temple Killeen Copperas Cove Fort Hood 254-778-1511 254-526-2033 254-547-9571 254-532-8680 www.bellcountyhealth.org 20

254-216-1020

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www.610FIT.com

Waco’s Premier Character Company since 2015

Over 30 enchanting characters to choose from for entertainment!

We come to you, serving Waco and surrounding cities in Central Texas.

Simply a Taste of Sweetness Kathy Tucker, Owner

Parties Live Performances Public Appearances Family Fun Events In-house Seamstress All Occasion Alterations

254-644-4413

By Appointment Only

www.kakesbykat.com info@kakesbykat.com

Contact Haley (254)-644-2832 | ekingdomparties@gmail

Parties Events Camps Classes Ages 3 - 9 254-313-1038 174 Midway Center Woodway, TX

www.OnlyBelieveParties.com

Da Ne into nc w th e Ye e ar Superior Training Budget-Friendly !

ALL THAT JAZZ

Year-Round Registration!

Classical Ballet Pointe Jazz Tap Private Lessons Adult Classes Lyrical Modern Pilates Hip Hop www.wacodance.com

254-265-6237

4600 Franklin Ave., Waco onceuponachildwaco.com

“Look straight ahead and FOCUS your eyes on what lies before you.” Proverbs 4:25

@focusbehavioraltx @focus_behavioral Our MISSION is to serve and support the behavioral needs of children and adults with autism, ADHD, developmental disabilities, and other behavioral disorders through center-based, home-based, and community-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques.

Killeen

254.634.7722 16125 Fort Hood St. Killeen, TX 76542

Waco

254.751.1622 7500 Imperial Dr. Waco, TX 76712

(254)732-2262 | www.focusbehavioral.com

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A SMILE

TO LAST A

LIFETIME

Tjel Olson, D.M.D. General Dentistry Limited to Children Aaron Blackwelder, D.D.S., M.S. Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist Manuel Marien, Jr., D.D.S. Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist Alex Piedra, D.D.S. Board-Eligible Pediatric Dentist 2122 Birdcreek Dr., Temple, TX 254.771.5701 Fax: 254.771.5770 www.TempleKidsDental.com

Complimentary Consultation | No-Interest Financing | Most Insurances Accepted

Josh M. Knowles, D.D.S., M.S.D. Board-Certiied Orthodontist

254-773-8028 | 209 Hilliard Rd. | Temple, TX