Hooray for Family Central Texas November 2023

FREE!

November 2023

HERITAGE SQUARE | DEC. 1  3 See article pg. 7

Thankful for the Smiles

New Location Now Open!

Serving the Children of Central Texas Schedule an Appointment Today!

254-433-8977 | 1605 Lake Success, Waco, TX Tjel Olson, D.M.D. General Dentistry Limited to Children Alex Piedra, D.D.S. Board Eligible 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 November!

The Holidays are Coming!

As we welcome November and the Thanksgiving season, Hooray for Family is here with our special edition! Discover handpicked activities, events, and resources to make this time unforgettable for your children. From pumpkin patches to holiday shopping and fun, our guide has you covered.

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. ~ From, the Hooray for Family Team Advertising Information: Kimberlee Adkins (702)523-6134

Next Deadline December 5th for January & February 2024 Issues

Contact us (254)723-3696 office@bergerpublishing.com

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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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

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.

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Featured Cover Spotlight

HERITAGE SQUARE | DEC. 1 - 3

By Jessa McClure

Fireworks, a Ferris Wheel, reindeer, and a snow tube hill are just some of the attractions and happenings in downtown Waco during the 11th annual Waco Wonderland celebration. From Dec. 1 - 3, Central Texas families can head down to Heritage Square to kick-off the holiday season.

“It’s just a wonderful community tradition that brings people of all ages and backgrounds together to enjoy the spirit of the holidays in a fun and festive atmosphere,” said Jessica Maxwell, Events and Promotions Specialist for the City of Waco Parks and Recreation Department. “We really strive to create a memorable experience for our guests each year. “ The festivities begin Friday, Dec. 1 at 5 p.m. with food vendors, Santa, and the Mistletoe Market. Attractions also include a Ferris Wheel, train rides, an entertainment stage, and a kids’ craft station.

“We’ll also have live reindeer from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.,” Maxwell said. “That’s something we’ve done for a couple of years now and it’s really popular. I mean, who doesn’t want to meet Santa’s reindeer?”

Friday night also includes a tree lighting ceremony with city leaders, along with a fireworks display at 7 p.m.

On Saturday, the event will open at 10 a.m. with the Waco Wonderland parade, presented by the Family of Faith Worship Center, that travels down Austin Avenue from 11th to 3rd Street.

“Our other big attraction on Saturday is the Snow Tube Hill and the Kiddie Hill,” she said.

The three-lane sledding experience opens at 3 p.m. and is available until close. And while you’re waiting in line for a ride, you might spot “Grouchy Santa” sneaking around and causing mischief.

On Sunday, the event opens at noon and goes until 6 p.m. The Snow Tube Hill will be open all day, and patrons can also enjoy a free petting zoo from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

“Admission to Waco Wonderland is free, but visitors can purchase a wristband to ride the attractions for $10,” Maxwell said. “The attractions include our Ferris Wheel, our train, and the Snow Tube Hill. Wristbands get them unlimited rides on the day of purchase for all three of those rides.”

When you’re finished soaking up all of the festive fun at the Waco Wonderland celebration, you can venture into downtown and peruse all the shops and eateries Waco has to offer.

“There really is something for everyone to enjoy at the festival and our goal is to keep it affordable for families and bring the holiday magic to the community,” she said.

For more information about Waco Wonderland or to purchase wristbands ahead of time, visit www.wacowonderland.com.

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Pumpkin Festival Sept. 23 - Nov. 5

Over 20++ activities at the farm, plus all things PUMPKIN! Pumpkin Cannon Pumpkin Themed Photo Ops Wagon Rides Farm Animals to Feed & Pet Beeline Mini Zip Lines Corn Bin

Cattle Drive Barrel Train Rides Giant Pumpkin Jump Pillow Fresh Squeezed Lemonade New! Delicious Street Tacos Cantina with Adult Beverages Live Music Saturdays & Sundays

There's hours of fun for everyone this fall at Western Belle!

Don't miss out on it Scan to Save Money & Purchase Tickets Online!

www.westernbellefarm.com 7929 Heritage Parkway, West, TX 76691 8

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ING! Only Afterschool Program geared towards NROLL NOW Eook Your creative arts & academics in the Central TX area!

B DAY! www.spacecreateacademy.com Tour TO Ages Transportation from several KISD schools 5 - 12 yrs.

Creative Arts Enrichment to include: Military Voice Piano Media Production & Other Visual Arts Gardening and MORE!

Discounts Now Available Serving

Tutoring Available at no additional cost

Supper!

*Tours & private lessons available

254-317-2450

207 W Ave D Killeen, TX 76541

assistant.spacecreate@gmail.com

Office Hours: M-F 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. (Program 3 - 6 p.m.)

Central Texas Athletics Train & Play with Us!

League Camps Private Lessons Select Club/ Travel Ball Strength & Conditioning

Centex Basketball League - 833-429-2255 Fall Basketball League begins Nov. 4 Basketball Tournament - Nov. 25 & 26

www.centraltexasathletics.com

Waco Lightning Volleyball - 254-495-1555

www.wacolightningvolleyball.com

Photo by Photography by Cecy

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

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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

Register Now for Classes!

The Children’s Soccer Experience

Waco | Temple | Killeen | Harker Heights | Belton Bryan | College Station Ages 2 - 8

254-776-6248

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 800 Schroeder Ste. C, Waco, TX www.txdynasty.com 10 HoorayForFamily.com

soccershots.com/centraltexas

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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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Register Now! Ballet . Tap . Jazz . Lyrical . Pointe

No Registratio n Fee! “Quality Dance Training with the Patience Your Child Deserves”

254-744-1310 Teen & Tween Manga & Anime Club

Ages 10 - 18

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

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

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 24

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$49.99

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

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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

www.jsodwaco.com

Local Company with Great Service

254-752-0777 | 9030 China Spring Hwy., Waco, TX | www.ChinaSpringCountryStore.com 26

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Award Winning Dance Studio

Waco

Bell County

Scan to view our Date Night Guides!

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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

This sweet and curious boy has a big smile and big heart. Michael is very independent, but loves making new friends and participating in activities like swimming and skating. He also loves building with Legos and playing video games like Roblox, Mario Kart, and Starfox. He has a kind and caring nature and has even helped translate for adults on trips to Nicaragua. He is an eager learner and math is his favorite subject.

Michael’s forever family should be caring, loving, and able to be patient and understanding with him as he adjusts to new situations. His family should enjoy being active and include him in activities they do together. They should also honor his independence and encourage his curiosity, letting him explore and discover new things. Michael is hoping that his new family will also include siblings and pets.

If you’re interested in adopting Michael, or would like to learn more about adoption, visit www.partnershipsforchildren.org/heartgallery/ michael-profile.

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ALL THAT JAZZ

G of the ive Da Gi nc ft e!

Superior Training Budget-Friendly 254-780-8065 227 N Hewitt Dr. Hewitt, TX wacoballoonco@gmail.com

Follow us to see our latest work @wacoballoonco

Register Now!

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

www.wacodance.com

Children’s Entertainment

Birthday Parties Special Events Face Painting Photos Packages Available Mascot Characters

254-338-3524 www.tootytot.com

www.facebook.com/tootytot254

Never put a baby to bed with a bottle.

Birth - 18 years Comprehensive Orthodontics Available

254-690-3380

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

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FLIPS

GYMNASTICS

Quality Gymnastics for All Ages

Resale Boutique

Enroll Now for Classes!

Be a

Shop with us!

30 Years in

Waco!

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!

A S K ABO UT OUR LOYALTY PRO G R AM !

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

Birthday Parties Recreational Classes Cheer/Tumble Classes Tumbling Classes Preschool Field Trips www.FlipsWaco.com 6933 Woodway Dr., Waco 254-776-2150

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

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

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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