Issuu

December 2023

FREE!

Photo by Photography by Cecy

See article pg. 7

Making Smiles Merry & Bright! Serving the Children of Central Texas Schedule an Appointment Today! 254-772-8330 | 1121 Lake Air Dr, Waco, TX

Tjel Olson, D.M.D. General Dentistry Limited to Children Alex Piedra, D.D.S. Board Eligible Pediatric Dentist Savitha Yannam, B.D.S., M.D.S., M.S.D. Board Certiied Pediatric Dentist Aaron Blackwelder, D.D.S., M.S. Board Certiied Pediatric Dentist

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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

7545 Bosque Blvd., Waco, TX

info@therapygroupofwaco.com www.therapygroupofwaco.com

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C e l e b ra t i n g 2

1 Ye a r s !

Happy December! The Holidays are Coming! As we embrace the festive spirit of December and the holiday season, Hooray for Family is excited to present our special edition! Explore a curated selection of activities, events, and resources designed to create cherished moments for your children. Whether it’s venturing to city events, finding the perfect gifts, or searching for holiday camps, our guide is your trusted companion for this magical time of year. Access our online guides and directories 24/7. We’re your source for fun family activities, whether it’s birthday party venues or after-school programs. Stay updated via our website, social media, and e-newsletter. Don’t miss out on savings! Check our Kids Eat Free Guide for discounted kids’ meals every day of the week. Let Hooray for Family be your companion as you enjoy this special season with your loved ones. Advertising Information: Kimberlee Adkins (702)523-6134

Next Deadline December 5th for January & February 2024 Issues

Meet the Team! Publisher: Michele Berger Creative Director: Jerri Denson Account Executive: Kimberlee Adkins Office Manager: Melissa Talbert Contributing Writer: Jessa McClure Social Media: Elizabeth Senn

Hooray For Family™ 2023. 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.

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Start Creating Holiday Gifts Now!

Parties For All Occasions

Scout Meetings

Field Trips

Church Group Activities

www.practicallypikassowaco.com

an eclectic art studio

OPEN Mon. - Fri. 1 - 9 p.m. | Sat. 12 - 9 p.m. | Sun. 1 - 6 p.m.

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 6

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Featured Cover Spotlight

By Jessa McClure Photo by Photography by Cecy

If you’re looking for extracurricular activities that will engage your child in the Creative Arts, then look no further than T. Ringgold Academy of Arts nestled in the heart of Killeen. The program was founded by international chart-topping recording artist and Broadway World nominated actress, Toni Ringgold, and is run by herself and a team of dynamic teachers who all share a passion for helping children cultivate their skills and believe in their dreams. “Basically, we are a hub for creative kiddos,” Ringgold said. “We know that creativity breeds innovation, and innovation changes the world. And because many schools have lost arts funding, we want to give children a place to cultivate their creative skills that is also affordable for parents.” T. Ringgold Academy of Arts offers private voice, acting, and instrument lessons for kids ages four and up. “In this current economy, affordability and convenience are needed for parents,” says Ringgold. “Being a mother of three children, I have firsthand experience on how much a program like this is needed.” Ringgold, who is the director and a teacher, has been teaching voice and piano performance for more than 10 years and has been working with children for more than 20 years. “T. Ringgold Academy has been around for over 10 years now, and we have serviced hundreds of students,” she said. “Not only do we give the kiddos the coaching they need to be successful musicians, but we also give them opportunities for performance.” Be on the lookout for the “Music Moves Me” program designed for homeschooled kids and babies that begins January 2024. “This fun program is perfect for military spouses and homeschoolers who want to get out and have some fun music enrichment,” Ringgold said. T. Ringgold Academy is conveniently located next to City Hall in Killeen at 207 W. Ave. D. “We pride ourselves in having a wonderful haven that promotes growth and creativity for our students,” she said. For information about T. Ringgold Academy of Arts for private lessons, visit www.toniringgold.biz/academy. Interested parents could also call or text (254) 317-2450 to book a private tour.

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FLIPS

GYMNASTICS

Quality Gymnastics for All Ages

Enroll Now for Classes! 30 Years in

Waco!

100 N. NEW ROAD STE. B, WACO, TX 254-776-2600

www.u-swirl.com

Birthday Parties Recreational Classes Cheer/Tumble Classes Tumbling Classes Preschool Field Trips www.FlipsWaco.com

254-776-2150 6933 Woodway Dr., Waco 8

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A Full-Service Performing Arts Academy in Killeen, TX

Set up your

FREE

OFFERING INNPERSON & VIRTUAL LESSONS: Voice Piano Public Speaking Acting

consultation today!

info@toniringgold.biz

207 W Ave D Killeen, TX

For all ages

www.toniringgold.biz

254-317-2450

Central Texas Athletics Train & Play with Us!

League Camps Private Lessons Select Club/ Travel Ball Strength & Conditioning Photo by Photography by Cecy

Centex Basketball League - 833-429-2255

www.centraltexasathletics.com NEW YEAR’S BASH TOURNAMENT

Sign up your team today! Dec. 29 - 31 | 1st - 8th grade boys & girls Register at centexleague.com Waco Lightning Volleyball - 254-495-1555

www.wacolightningvolleyball.com

712 Robinson Dr, Robinson, TX

Call or see websites for tryout dates.

Birthday Parties Date Nights Team Building

254-265-6237 4600 Franklin Ave., Waco www.onceuponachildwaco.com

1007 Wooded Acres Dr, Waco, TX HoorayForFamily.com

Hewitt Public Library Presents

12 Days of Christmas Join us in celebrating the holiday season with these fun library activites and events!

12/1 - Pictures with Santa 12/2 - Teen Art Day 12/3 - Online Holiday Storytime 12/4 - Adult Craft Day 12/5 - Holiday Storytime 12/6 - Holiday Curiosity Cart

12/7 - Pictures with Santa at Tree Lighting 12/8 - Holiday Music & Movement 12/9 - Christmas Scavenger Hunt 12/10 - Online Holiday Storytime 12/11 - Blended Holiday Storytime 12/12 - Kids Craft Day

*Visit our calendar for times and registration requirements www.cityofhewitt.com 200 Patriot Court, Hewitt, TX | 254-666-2442

NINJA ZONE Register

Now for Classes! The Children’s Soccer Experience

254-776-6248 800 Schroeder Ste. C, Waco, TX 10

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Soccer Shots Central Texas focuses on character development and skill building, and will help your child to improve their gross motor skills, socialization skills and self-conﬁdence. 254-294-7864

soccershots.com/centraltexas

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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 & maternity clothes! ASK ABOUT OUR LOYALTY PROGRAM!

4316 W. Waco Drive next to la bella salon and jason’s deli Coect wi us! www.smartypantswaco.com HoorayForFamily.com

MONDAYS Baby Time (ages birth to 1 yr.) Blended story time (ages 1 - 5)

TUESDAYS Toddler Time (ages 1-3) Early Literacy (ages 3-5) Please see website for times and location

254-776-1672

16200 Badger Ranch Blvd. Woodway, TX

www.expressionsdance.studio

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

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254-666-2442 200 Patriot Court, Hewitt, TX www.cityofhewitt.com

L IA ! C E ER SP FF O

ith w y p ap h s? u e o d y a gr s Are ‛ d l chi r u o y

One-to-One Instruction Individualized Programs NO CONTRACTS! Guaranteed Results

Reading Math Writing Study Skills

Pre-Algebra Algebra I Geometry Algebra II

Call us today to schedule your FREE Diagnostic Assessment and Test Consultation! www.tutoringcenter.com

(254) 245-8717

3700 S WS Young Dr., Suite 111,Killeen, TX. 76542

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Great Gift Idea! Give the gift of 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 2 weeks for $49!

Two Locations!

7005 Woodway Dr., Woodway, TX 254-772-KICK (5425) (across from Regal Jewel Theater)

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

www.familymartialartsoftexas.com

Photo by Brigham Mayyeld Photography

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Teen & Tween Manga & Anime Club

Ages 10 - 18

Hewitt Public Library Tween & Teen Programs Sign up on our events calendar! www.cityofhewitt.com

1 & 3 Saturday of the month 10 - 11 a.m. st

Watch Anime Discuss Manga with Friends Fun Anime & Manga themed Crafts

Teen Advisory Board 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month

Teen Leaders for Teen Programming Ages 12 - 18 3rd Tuesday of the month | 5 - 6 p.m.

2 - 3:30 p.m.

200 Patriot Court, Hewitt, TX | 254-666-2442 | www.cityofhewitt.com

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$99

NOW ONLY

$49.99

USE PROMO CODE: HOORAY at www.pogopass.com for 50% OFF today! HoorayForFamily.com

Find Fun Holiday Fashions & Gifts!

Local Company with Great Service

254-752-0777 | 9030 China Spring Hwy., Waco, TX | www.ChinaSpringCountryStore.com

Three Locations! Teaching the "Joy" of Dance for Over 40 Years, a Waco Tradition

Exceptional Dance Training

Ballet Tap Jazz Hip Hop Contemporary Modern Musical Theater Dance/Drill Team Prep Mommy & Me Ballet Boys Hip Hop Ages one - adult

(254) 776-1797 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

www.NewBeginningsLearningAcademy.com 26

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www.jsodwaco.com

Award Winning Dance Studio

Waco

Bell County

Scan to view our Date Night Guides! HoorayForFamily.com

FOREVER FA M I L I E S Community partners helping local children find a brighter future

By Jessa McClure

Photo by Vineyard Photo & Video

Sabrina loves to spend time outside, but also enjoys being indoors making crafts and playing with dolls. This quiet 12-yearold even gifts her creations to others. She also enjoys baking, and is getting into fashion and makeup as she approaches teenhood. Sabrina also loves to listen to music, dance, and sing. She does well in school and is not afraid to advocate for herself. Sabrina also loves a variety of food, pizza being her favorite, and likes to try new things. Sabrina’s forever family should be one that is loving and committed to caring for her. Her family should offer a structured environment with supervision, boundaries, and clear expectations to help her thrive. Sabrina would be a great addition to a loving forever family. If you’re interested in adopting Sabrina, or would like to learn more about adoption, visit www.partnershipsforchildren.org/heartgallery/sabrina.

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254-780-8065 227 N Hewitt Dr. Hewitt, TX wacoballoonco@gmail.com

254-300-7677

Add Some AXE-itement to Your Holidays! 924 Austin Ave., Waco

www.axethrowingwaco.com

ALL THAT JAZZ

G of the ive Da Gi nc ft e!

Superior Training Budget-Friendly

Classical Ballet Pointe Jazz Tap Private Lessons Adult Classes Lyrical Modern Pilates Hip Hop

www.wacodance.com

Children’s Entertainment

Your child’s first dental visit should be between ages 1 & 2.

Birth - 18 years Comprehensive Orthodontics Available

254-690-3380

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

Birthday Parties Special Events Face Painting Photos Packages Available Mascot Characters

254-338-3524 www.tootytot.com

www.facebook.com/tootytot254

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Ballet . Tap . Jazz . Lyrical . Pointe

“Quality Dance Training with the Patience Your Child Deserves”

254-744-1310

HEAD START | ENROLL NOW Free Programs for Eligible 0 - 5 Year Olds Includes children with disabilities and pregnant moms

Early Literacy Program | Texas School Ready Participant

“Community Choices in Children’s Care”

Accepting applications for employment at: terra.scott@ct4c.org “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.CT4C.org 30

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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: 800 Shady Lane #733

254-778-0489 254-215-6178 254-501-9232 254-939-9335

Tis the Season for Smiles!

Tjel Olson, D.M.D. General Dentistry Limited to Children Aaron Blackwelder, D.D.S., M.S. Board Certiied Pediatric Dentist Alex Piedra, D.D.S. Board Eligible Pediatric Dentist

254-771-5701 2122 Birdcreek Dr., Temple

www.TempleKidsDental.com HoorayForFamily.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