Central Texas Newcomers | Fall 2024

NEWCOMERS GOVERNMENT HEALTH CARE MILITARY EDUCATION COMMUNITY SERVICES RECREATION ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS

FALL 2024

CENTRAL TEXAS WELCOME GUIDE

ONLINE AT KDHNEWS.COM A KDH MEDIA GROUP PUBLICATION

ATTORNEY Carlson Law Firm.............9

BANK & CREDIT UNION

COMMUNITY SERVICES

City of Cedar Park ...........3 Copperas Cove Economic Development Center ......61

SouthStar Bank ..............50

DENTIST

BANQUET FACILITY L3 Coworking & Event Center ..................17

All Dental & Braces ........31 Allstar Children’s Dentistry .........................31 Dental Images ...............38

BEAUTY

EDUCATION

Besos Aesthetics..................15 Yahweh Beauty Academy ...53

BOAT DEALER Texas Boat World ............63

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Central Texas College ......8 Copperas Cove ISD .......35 Nolan Creek Academy ...37 Priority Charter Schools ............... 33 & 55 University of Mary Hardin-Baylor .......29

Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce ...................6

ENTERTAINMENT

Harker Heights Chamber of Commerce .................65

Killeen Bowlerama .........67 Salado Museum .............20

CHURCHES

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Agape Cogic .................20 Harker Heights Methodist ......................49 St. Christopher's Episcopal ......................19

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS American Legion 573 .....61 Crossroads to Texas Quilt Guild ....................57

Lillie Aguero & Assoc.......11

FUNERAL HOME

Harper-Talasek Funeral Homes ..............14 Young’s Daughters Funeral Home ...............71

HOME BUILDERS Keith Carothers Homes .. 40

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HOME SERVICES

LOCKSMITH

RECREATION & LEISURE

Airmax .............................17 Pop-A-Lock .............................47 Bell County Museum .........17 American Construction ......67 Texas Ranger Museum .......23 MEDICAL American Roofing .............67 Kidz Therapeze ................49 RENTALS CWS Electrical ...... Back Cover Hunter Rentals ..................71 Killeen Overhead Doors .......6 MORTGAGE COMPANY Solar Centex .....................51 SWBC Mortgage Inside Front Cover

HOSPITAL AdventHealth ............. 58 & 59 AdventHealth ...Inside Back Cover Baylor Scott & White ................... 7

INSURANCE Allstate IRA Brand .............61

LANDSCAPING & NURSERY

Grizzly’s Hidden Falls Nursery & Landscaping ...........13

PET SERVICES

SPECIALTY STORE

Carol’s Creations ..............56 Cherished Memories .........53 Continental Battery ...........19 El Centro Pet Dragon Lady Tattoos .........57 Medical Center .................51 Kirbo’s Office Systems .......56 Wells Laundry ...................15 REAL ESTATE Hustle House Realty ......... 14 JWC Rentals .................... 15 STORAGE FACILITY Linneman Realty .............. 47 Big Red Barn Self Storage ..67 Rinehart Real Estate Inspections ............... 32 Soldiers of Real Estate ...... 45

KILLEEN DAILY HERALD | KDHNEWS.COM I 5

LIVING HERE

Welcome to Central Texas The Fall 2024 Newcomers Guide is designed to help new residents familiarize themselves with the Central Texas communities that comprise the greater Killeen-Fort Cavazos area.

This convenient guide provides information to help new and returning residents settle into their homes, enroll in schools and colleges, get involved in the local communities, and enjoy the area’s wide variety of activities and attractions.

It includes information on registering vehicles, searching for a job, understanding the workings of local governments and receiving assistance from the many service organizations in the area.

The following Herald staff members, graphic designers and correspondents contributed to the writing, photography, planning, editing and design of this section: Joseph Bahr, Mike Bartozsek, Renee Blue, Jacob Brooks, Erin Eskew, M. Clare Haefner, Emily Hilley-Sierzchula, Brent Johnson, Jana Lynn Kilcrease, Kevin Limiti, Dave Miller, Mark Miller, Erik Walsh, Clay Whittington and Andy Zavoina.

Also contributing to this edition were public information specialists and administrators from area cities, school districts, hospitals, colleges and universities.

CONTACT US To subscribe to the Herald, call 254-501-7400.

To advertise, call 254-501-7500.

For the newsroom, call 254-501-7542.

The Herald is at 1809 Florence Road, Killeen, TX 76541.

Find more news coverage online at KDHnews.com.

Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/kdhnews or on X (formerly Twitter) at twitter.com/kdhnews.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE ADVERTISING INDEX.............4 EDUCATION.........................30 LIVING HERE.........................6 HEALTH CARE.....................39 BELL COUNTY..................... 10 BUSINESS...........................45 WILLIAMSON COUNTY......... 18 COMMUNITY SERVICES...... 48 GOVERNMENT..................... 19 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT... 60 MILITARY............................ 21 SPORTS & RECREATION...... 64 CORYELL COUNTY...............25 MEDIA................................ 72 LAMPASAS COUNTY............ 27 BUSINESS DIRECTORY......... 73 TRANSPORTATION..............28 NOW ONLINE AT KDHNEWS.COM 6 | CENTRAL TEXAS NEWCOMERS | FALL 2024

KILLEEN DAILY HERALD | KDHNEWS.COM I 7

LIVING HERE

New residents must register vehicles, get a Texas driver’s license

Upon moving to Texas, individuals can legally drive with a valid, unexpired license from another state or country for up to 90 days. Within that time, individuals must apply in person at any driver’s license office for a Texas license.

To apply, residents must prove their residence is in Texas and that they have lived here least 30 days.

There are a number of forms that can be used to prove residency: • Current deed, mortgage, monthly mortgage statement, mortgage payment booklet or a residential lease agreement • Current homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy or homeowner’s or renter’s insurance statement • Valid, unexpired Texas voter registration card • Texas vehicle registration or title • Texas boat registration or title, • Texas concealed handgun license • Recent utility statement, within 90 days of application, (electric, water, natural gas, satellite TV, cable TV or non-cellular phone bill)

• Selective Service card • Current automobile insurance policy or insurance statement • Current Form DS2019, I-20 or a document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Additionally, three forms of ID are required, one must include a photo, and one must be a Social Security card or military ID card. For more information, go to www.txdps.state.tx.us.

VEHICLE REGISTRATION

Texas residents must register their vehicles within 30 days of moving and should do so prior to applying for a Texas driver’s license. Through Dec. 31, vehicles must be inspected prior to registration. Proof of insurance and an inspection from a state-licensed station are needed. Active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces and nonresident, fulltime students attending a Texas college or university are not required to register or title their vehicles in Texas. Call 254634-0265 or go to www.txdot.gov.

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DRIVER’S LICENSE OFFICES

KILLEEN 5100 W. Elms Road 254-616-1800 Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FORT CAVAZOS Main Gate Visitor’s Center, Building 69005 254-618-4180 Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

GATESVILLE 3418 E. Main St. 254-865-2444 Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

LAMPASAS 1690 N. U.S. Highway 281 512-556-6871 Tuesday-Thursday: 8 a.m. to noon, 1:15 to 5 p.m.

TEMPLE 6612 S. General Bruce Drive 254-770-6734 (recording) Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; open until 6 p.m. Tuesday.

KILLEEN DAILY HERALD | KDHNEWS.COM I 9

BELL COUNTY

Killeen home to about 160,000 people

Over the past 142 years, Killeen has grown into a metropolitan city with a rich history, and has adapted its diversity in its support of one of the largest military posts in the world.

The city was established with the arrival of the first Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railroad train, and incorporated in 1882, primarily as a shipping center for agricultural and textile materials and products.

The city was named after Frank P. Killeen, a senior railroad official and native of Ireland. The rural community began with 350 people, and gradually expanded until it boomed during the war era of the 1940s.

Camp Hood, later designated Fort Hood and now known as Fort Cavazos, was set up in 1942 as a development and training center to fight German tanks.

Killeen grew with the influx of soldiers and families, and became a melting pot of cultures, food, ideas, languages and people.

About 160,000 people currently live in the city that sprawls over more than 55 square miles.

Downtown Killeen is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Infrastructure and amenities continue to expand to keep up with demand.

In addition to essential city services, a variety of quality-of-life amenities are offered, including hiking and biking trails, public libraries, a recreation and fitness center, a disc golf course, swimming pools, skate parks, and an 18-hole golf course.

The city’s Utility Collections Division, 210 W. Avenue C, manages billing for water, sewer and trash services. New accounts can be set up during regular business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

Visit by noon for same-day service; after-hours services are available for an additional fee. Go to killeentexas.gov/ utilitycollections for more information or call 254-501-7800.

Trash service is often set up at the same time as water and sewer; reach its customer service at 254-501-7785.

The Killeen City Library System is an educational and cultural asset. The

From left, Mayor Debbie Nash-King poses with Myriam Rodriguez, Yvonne Yates and City Councilwoman Nina Cobb. Rodriguez and Yates were honored with the Killeen Star Award in September.

City has council-manager form of government Killeen uses the council-manager form of government, established in its City Charter in 1949.

Although Mayor Debbie Nash-King is the chief officer, her administrative power is limited. She presides over the seven council members, who set policy.

City Manager Kent Cagle is the chief administrative officer and is responsible for oversight of all city operations.

Four council members represent Killeen’s districts: Jessica Gonzalez, District 1; Joseph Solomon, District 2; Nina Cobb, District 3; and Michael Boyd, District 4.

The three at-large council members — Riakos Adams, Jose Segarra and Ramon Alvarez — represent the city as a whole. Residents of each district choose their representatives, but

main library at 205 E. Church Ave. downtown and the Copper Mountain Branch Library at 3000 S. W.S. Young Drive offer two locations for residents

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at-large members are elected by the entire city.

Council terms are two years, and service is limited to three consecutive terms. Elections are typically held in May in even-numbered years for mayor and at-large council members.

Elections for the four district council members are held in May in oddnumbered years.

The Council’s Governing Standards and Expectations call for workshops on the first and third Tuesday of each month and regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday unless rescheduled by the council.

Both workshops and council meetings are typically held at 5 p.m. at City Hall, 101 N. College St. Call 254501-7600 or go to www.killeentexas.gov for agendas and minutes and more information.

with a dynamic collection and seasonal children’s activities.

Go to killeentexas.gov to learn more about the city and its services.

BELL COUNTY

Mayor says Killeen offers something for everyone I want to extend a warm welcome to our newcomers. Killeen is a place where you and your family will feel at home.

The top focus of the City Council and staff is to provide our residents with the highest quality of life. Our diverse population, with residents from across the globe, will enhance your cultural experiences. The local restaurants feature authentic cuisines from all around the world, and our historic downtown has the perfect blend of hometown charm and hidden gems where we host heritage festivals, a varied assortment of entertainment selections and international, multiethnic events.

Residents can also enjoy our familyoriented activities, festivals, art shows, recreation events, community theatre, parks, and hike and bike trails.

We have something for everyone!

We also strive for affordable housing

and strong neighborhoods.

Small-business entrepreneurs, arts and a mix of cultures all contribute to our flourishing Historic Downtown area, and our industrial park offers a variety of job opportunities for residents in our thriving economy.

Killeen is a well-educated community. We have two universities to ensure that our residents have options for life-long learning. In addition, there are 32 elementary schools, 11 middle schools, five high schools, three special campuses, a state-of-the-art career center and an

early college high school.

In our city, you can also take advantage of our top-notch airport that is easy to access for business travel, or for families flying into our city to spend time with loved ones.

Fort Cavazos is the Army’s premier installation for training and deploying heavy forces. A 214,968-acre installation, this is the only post in the United States capable of stationing and training two armored divisions.

The city is proud to be a partner with Fort Cavazos and surrounding cities in Central Texas.

We are excited that you chose Killeen to be your home. It is with a sense of purpose and community pride that I welcome you to the city of Killeen. If you need any assistance during your transition, please do not hesitate to contact me at www.KilleenTexas.gov.

Debbie Nash-King Mayor of Killeen

KILLEEN DAILY HERALD | KDHNEWS.COM I 11

BELL COUNTY

Nearly 36,000 people call Harker Heights home

Located on Interstate 14 about 10 miles west of I-35, and abutting Stillhouse Hollow Lake, Harker Heights is 15.65 square miles in area.

As of September 2024, the estimated population was 35,820 residents, an increase from 35,538 residents since January 2024.

“Harker Heights is a community that shares a purpose for improving the daily needs of all citizens. These values are attractive to our residents and businesses.” City Manager David Mitchell said.

Housing development has continued to show stable growth in 2024. As of September, the city had issued 43 residential permits; 27 singlefamily permits and 16 two-family permits.

As of September, the city also issued 20 commercial permits totaling $ 8,915,7210 in project valuation.

Some of the public services that the city provides include parks and recreation, library, planning and development, pet adoption center, fire and EMS, police, and public works.

An interactive map of park facilities can be found on the Parks and Recreation Department’s webpage at https://harkerheights.gov/index.php/ departments/parks The city provides traditional sports leagues and non-traditional programs such as “Go Heights,” which teaches campfire building and wild land survival. https://harkerheights.gov/ index.php/outdoor-recreation Looking for an entertaining program or event? Check out the Stewart C. Meyer Public Library’s website at https://harkerheights.gov/index. php/departments/library Harker Heights provides a full array of utility services: solid waste collection, drainage, wastewater, water, and street maintenance. Call Public Works at 254953-5649 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for more information.

The City Council meets at the Harker Heights City Hall in the Kitty Young Council Chambers at 305 Miller’s Crossing. Regular council meetings are at 5 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Workshop

Kids and parents enjoy the afternoon at the Harker Heights Public Library during the Fall Fun Blowout in September. It's one of many family-friendly activities held in the city throughout the year.

HARKER HEIGHTS’ ELECTED LEADERS AND TOP ADMINISTRATORS

Harker Heights is a home-rule city that operates under a council-manager form of government. Serving as council members are: Mayor: Michael Blomquist, first term expires May 2026 Mayor Pro Tem: Lynda Nash, second term expires May 2026 Place 1: Jennifer McCann, second term expires May 2025 Place 2: Shane Hodyniak, first term will expire May 2027 Place 3: Tony Canterino, first term expires May 2025 Place 5: Sam Halabi, second term expires May 2027 City Manager: David Mitchell, dmitchell@harkerheights.gov Assistant City Manager: Jerry Bark, jbark@harkerheights.gov Assistant City Manager: Mark Hyde, mhyde@harkerheights.gov Director of Human Resources: Leona Clay, lclay@harkerheights.gov City Secretary: Julie Helsham, jhelsham@harkerheights.gov Finance Director: Ayesha Lealiiee, alealiiee@harkerheights.gov City Engineer: Kristina Ramirez, kramirez@harkerheights.gov Information Technology Director: Gary Bates, gbates@harkerheights.gov Library Director: Lisa Youngblood, lyoungblood@harkerheights.gov Fire Chief/Emergency Management Coordinator: Shannon Stephens, sstephens@harkerheights.gov Parks & Recreation Director: Amy Atkins, aatkins@harkerheights.gov Police Chief: Betiale Hawkins, bhawkins@harkerheights.gov meetings normally begin at 3 p.m. on the first and third Tuesdays. Items may be placed on the agenda by submitting a written request no less than seven days prior to the scheduled council meeting.

Billy Ray Hall serves as Municipal

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Court judge. Garland Potvin serves as the alternate municipal judge.

To stay informed on city events, programs, and news simply go to https://harkerheights.gov/stayinformed and sign up for the alerts.

BELL COUNTY

Belton’s July 4 festival, parade draw huge crowds As the county seat of Bell County, Belton really knows how to celebrate.

The city’s largest event of the year is the Fourth of July festival, which traditionally attracts over 50,000 people to the city with an estimated population of less than half that number.

The festivities include a rodeo, a carnival and festival on Nolan Creek.

“Nothing in Central Texas can top the city of Belton’s July 4th parade,” City Manager Sam Listi said. “It is the best way to kick off Independence Day and celebrate all things American.”

Nolan Creek, which winds its way downtown, offers plenty of recreation opportunities. A park with nature trail and kayak/tube launch area is just below the MLK bridge on Nolan Creek.

Parking is available just east of the bridge.

The Downtown Belton Merchants Association hosts Belton Market Days on the third weekend of each month.

Streets near the historic Bell County

Keith Younce participates in a July 4 hot dog eating contest at Yettie Polk Park in Belton.

Courthouse are closed, and a variety of vendors sell their wares.

Belton’s Annual Bacon, Blues and Brews Festival takes place each fall around the Courthouse Square. The twoday festival features blues bands, food

trucks and breweries. The highlight of the festival is the bacon cook-off competition, where teams compete to see who prepares the best dish.

The city government consists of a mayor and a council with six members.

Each year council members choose a mayor from among their ranks. The current mayor is David K. Leigh, who previously served as councilman and mayor pro tem.

The rest of the council consists of Mayor Pro Tem John R. Holmes Sr., Dave Covington, Craig Pearson, Daniel Bucher, Stephanie O’Banion and Wayne Carpenter. Carpenter previously served as Belton’s mayor, also.

The seats held by Bucher, Carpenter and O’Banion will be up for election in May of next year.

Belton’s city council meets at 5:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at the Harris Community Center.

Learn more at beltontexas.gov.

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BELL COUNTY

Projects, upgrades help connect Nolanville community

Nolanville, located along Interstate 14 between Belton and Harker Heights, is home to about 6,200 residents.

The city is involved in several future projects, including continuous upgrades to parks and complete community connectivity projects that will soon turn one street into a complete recreation destination.

City officials strive to continue improvements to the town’s landscape and quality of life. One of the chief areas of focus has been the revitalization of the former Community Center into a SMART Museum that will soon provide a resource library, exhibit space, podcasting rooms and virtual reality rooms for recreational use and career and developmental training.

The city’s $3.5 million operating budget funds the administration in addition to the police, fire, and public works departments.

All departments are centrally located in the Nolanville Municipal Building at 101 N. Fifth St.

The Jon Austin Band performs at Nolanville's Train Whistle Jamboree in October.

Nolanville manages city business with a council-manager form of government.

A six-member council convenes for regular meetings at 6 p.m. on the first and third Thursday of every month in the council chambers in the Nolanville Municipal Building.

The governing body includes Mayor

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Andy Williams, Mayor Pro Tem Patrick Ramsdell and council members Karishma Talbott, Juanita Sims , Mikayla Mondragon, and Jerry Rains.

The interim city manager is Teresa Chandler.

The Nolanville City Council appoints the municipal judge every two years.

Judge Kevin Madison is the primary presiding judge and the court conducts hearings once a month.

The Nolanville Police Department is led by Chief Michael Hatton. He guides a force of 13 officers. The Nolanville Fire Department is led by Chief Robert Cunningham. He leads a force of 33 firefighters.

The Nolanville Economic Development Corporation uses 0.25%of the city sales tax for economic and industrial development. Brian O’Connor was appointed last year as the Director of the Nolanville Economic Development Corporation.

Learn more about services on the city’s website: www.nolanvilletx.gov.

KILLEEN DAILY HERALD | KDHNEWS.COM I 15

BELL COUNTY

Permit process made easy in Central Texas cities In every city, permits are necessary for new construction, as well as for things like garage sales and sign postings.

KILLEEN

City residents can obtain permit applications online at www.mygovernmentonline.org, residents create an account and go to the Killeen portal.

Permits are then completed electronically.

Questions can be emailed to buildingpermits@killeentexas.gov.

HARKER HEIGHTS

At www.mygovernmentonline. org, residents can create an account and navigate to the Harker Heights portal, where permits can be completed electronically.

Residents may contact the Planning & Development Department with questions at planning@harkerheights.gov, 254953-5648, or in person at City Hall, 305 Miller’s Crossing.

NOLANVILLE

Residents may obtain city permits online at www. nolanvilletx.gov/page/Online%20 Services.

Submit completed forms at City Hall, 101 N. Fifth St.

COPPERAS COVE

Residents may now complete the permitting process online at www.copperascovetx.gov or www. mygovernmentonline.org/.

Specific questions or concerns may be addressed by stopping by City Hall, 914 S. Main St., Suite G.

BELTON

Residents can complete the process online at www.beltontexas. gov/inspection.

Applications can be submitted at City Hall, 333 Water St or via email to planning@beltontexas.gov.

Elected judge, commissioners oversee Bell County’s budget and operations The Bell County Commissioners Court — elected positions of county judge and four precinct commissioners — form the backbone of county financial administration because they set the county budget.

“The Texas Constitution vests broad judicial and administrative powers in the position of county judge, who presides over a five-member commissioners court, which has budgetary and administrative authority over county government operations,” according to Bell County. “The commissioner’s court is responsible for building and maintaining the roads and bridges of the county...” and adopts the tax rate and budget for the county.

As of October, the Bell County Commissioner’s Court consists of County Judge David Blackburn, Precinct 1 Commissioner Russell Schneider, Precinct 2 Commissioner Bobby Whitson, Precinct 3 Commissioner Bill Schumann, and Precinct 4 Commissioner Louie Minor.

However, after the November election, the commissioners court will have at least one new face because Schumann did not seek re-election. In the race to represent Precinct 3, businessman Greg Reynolds got the most votes in the Republican primary with more than 33% of the vote; however, because he did not garner more than half of the votes, the race went to a runoff in May. Reynolds was victorious in the runoff and will face Democrat Terris Goodwin in the November general election.

COUNTY BUDGET

Bell County’s budget for fiscal year 2025 includes expenditures in the general fund totaling more than $160 million, which is more than the $145.4 million in the 2024 budget. The tax rate for the 2025 fiscal year increased more than 3 cents from last year’s rate to 34.45 cents per $100 in valuation.

Last year’s general fund revenue budget was $145,411,890 and last year’s general expenditure fund was $160,461,890. The adopted combined

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Bell County Commissioner Louie Minor listens as residents speak about traffic congestion on Chaparral and Featherline roads in Killeen.

county budget is $160,766,183, according to FME News Service reporting and the 2024-25 proposed budget.

Commissioners meet every Monday at 9 a.m. at the Bell County Courthouse at 101 Central Avenue in Belton. If there is a Monday holiday, the court meets on the following Tuesday.

Visit the county website at www. bellcountytx.com/county_government/ commissioners_court to learn more about the commissioners, to view a precinct map, and to view agendas and minutes.

COUNTY CLERK

Working behind the scenes is the Bell County clerk’s office, which provides administrative support to the commissioners court as well as three county courts-at-law. Shelley Coston has been the Bell County clerk since 2007.

The clerk’s office handles much of the paperwork that documents the lives of Bell County residents, from births to deaths and all the steps in between.

Deputy clerks focus on specific duties in four departments — vital statistics, property records, civil and probate court records and criminal court records.

The office, at 1201 Huey Road in Belton, is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Go to http://www. bellcountytx.com or call 254-933-5160.

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BELL COUNTY | WILLIAMSON COUNTY

Salado a vibrant arts community with lots of events

Salado offers a lively experience for locals and visitors alike. The village is packed with year-round activities and rich historical charm. Some of the highlights for visitors include Wildflower Weekend in March to celebrate spring; the Sirena Fest in October, honoring the town’s mermaid legend; and the Jingle Walk, an early holiday shopping event in October.

The Scottish Gathering and Highland Games in November pay tribute to Salado’s Scottish heritage with games and festivities, while December brings the Salado Christmas Parade and Stroll, offering a quintessential “Hallmark Christmas in Texas.” These are just a few of the many events that draw tourists to experience Salado.

Salado was once a stop along the Chisholm Trail in the 1800s where weary travelers sought refuge by the springs of Salado Creek. This charming historic town is now known for its Main Street stroll.

Visitors can enjoy breweries, wineries, coffee shops, art galleries, diverse dining options, unique shops, and lodging that offers both a glimpse of history and scenic views.

The village, home to over 2,300

Children spin and play at the All-Abilities Playground during the 2024 Sirena Creekside Carnival.

residents, also boasts cultural landmarks such as the Tablerock Amphitheater, an outdoor sculpture garden and more than 40 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Salado is led by Mayor Bert Henry,

along with a four-member Board of Aldermen: Michael MacDonald, Rodney Bell, Zach Hurst, and Jason Graham.

The village’s administration is overseen

by Manuel De La Rosa.

To learn more about Salado, go to www.visitsaladotexas.com.

Florence a small town with blossoming dreams and an ancient past The name, “Florence,” is derived from Latin meaning, “blossoming or flourishing,” which describes the city of Florence as a small town with blossoming dreams, located along Texas State Highway 195, in Williamson County, between Georgetown and Killeen. The discovery of ancient relics at the Gault Archaeological Site was a result of years of archaeological digs, research and testing and gives the small town of Florence bragging rights to a home foundation.

The site dates back thousands of years, even earlier than the Clovis culture. People can book tours of the site through the Bell or Williamson County museums. Even the City’s

water tower displays, “Florence, TX — Est. in 18,000 BC.” As they say in Florence, “Folks have been gathering here for tens of thousands of years.”

CITY GOVERNMENT

Managing all that growth is the elected government that consists of Mayor Ben Daniel and five city council members: Mayor Pro Tem Mary Condon, Alderwoman Denise Deichmann, Alderwoman Lesa Ragsdale, Alderman Mike Harrell, and Alderman Forrest Hyde.

The City Council meets the first Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 851 Farm-toMarket 970, Florence.

Learn more about city services at

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www.florencetex.com.

The Eula Hunt Beck Florence Public Library offers classes, children’s programs and a book club that meets Tuesdays. For more information about the library, visit https://www.facebook. com/FlorenceTXPublicLibrary/.

The city is small but busy. For the latest events visit https://www. facebook.com/CityofFlorenceTx/.

Florence boasts a bustling Main Street where local businesses hold First Fridays; an event in which shop owners offer extended shopping until 8 p.m. and serve snacks and beverages on the first Friday of every month. For more information on local businesses and events, go to florencechamberofcommerce.org.

GOVERNMENT

Meet the area’s elected officials Residents in the greater Killeen area have multiple ways to get their voices heard. The area is served by two congressional districts and three state House and one state Senate districts.

U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 31

U.S. Rep. John Carter represents the 31st Congressional District, an area of Central Texas that includes most of Bell County with the exception of Killeen, as well as Bosque, Hamilton, Coryell, Williamson and Burnet counties. Carter, a Republican from Round Rock, was first elected in 2002.

His Bell County office is in Belton at 2180 N. Main St., Suite No. I-10. Call 254933-1392 or go to http://carter.house.gov.

U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 11

U.S. Rep. August Pfluger represents the 11th Congressional District, an area of West and Central Texas that includes Killeen, parts of Harker Heights and all of Lampasas County in the U.S. House. The district extends to far West Texas. Pfluger, a Republican from San Angelo, was first elected in 2020. Pfluger’s Killeen office is located at 505 E. Japser Drive. Call 254-669-6570 or go to https://pfluger.house.gov.

TEXAS SENATE DISTRICT 24

Republican Pete Flores represents Senate District 24, a multicounty region that includes Bell, Coryell and Lampasas counties.

The district also contains two major military bases, Fort Hood in Killeen and Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene.

He was elected in 2023. Call his office at 512-463-0124 or email peter.flores@ senate.texas.gov. His address at the Capitol is P.O. Box 12068 Capitol Station Austin TX 78711.

TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 54

In the Texas House, District 54 is represented by Republican Brad Buckley,

a Killeen veterinarian and Salado resident, first elected in 2018. The district includes much of western Bell County, as well as Lampasas County.

His Capitol address is Room E1.316, 1100 Congress Ave, Austin. The mailing address is P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768. Call 512-463-0684. Buckley has district offices at the Historic Fowler House, 1301 N. Stagecoach Road in Salado, and in the Lampasas County Courthouse, 501 E. Fourth St., Suite 301.

TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 55

District 55 is represented

by Republican Hugh Shine, a retired Army officer, of Temple. He was first elected in 2016. Call his office at 254742-7616 or 512-463-0630. His address is Room GS.6 1100 Congress Ave, Austin. The mailing address is P.O. Box 2910 Austin, TX 78768. His local office is at 4 S. First St., Temple.

TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 59

Republican Shelby Slawson, an attorney and entrepreneur from Stephenville, has represented District 59 since 2020. The district includes all or parts of Erath, Comanche, McCulloch, Mills, Hamilton, Coryell, San Saba and Somervell counties. Call her office at 512-463-0628.

REGISTER TO VOTE

As soon as residence is established, a person is qualified to register to vote.

Residents may register to vote yearround, but must be registered at least 30 days before an election.

In Bell County, register at the Bell County Tax Assessor and Voter Registrar’s Office, at 550 E. Second Ave. in Belton, the County Annex at 307 Priest Drive in Killeen and the Fort Cavazos visitor center.

In Coryell County, register at the Courthouse at 620 E. Main St. in Gatesville or at the County Tax Office at 330 Cove Terrace in Copperas Cove.

In Lampasas County, register at the Courthouse at 501 E. Fourth St. Download forms at votetexas.gov.

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GOVERNMENT

Clearwater protects groundwater For the last 25 years, the Clearwater Underground Water Conservation District has been managing and protecting Bell County’s groundwater resources. The district was established in 1999 by the 71st session of the Texas Legislature. The bill required that the voters of Bell County affirm the District in a countywide local election.

The voters affirmed the creation of the District and the authority of the District to charge a property tax.

“We want to protect both the groundwater across Bell County so that it is available to future generations, but at the same time balance that role while protecting property rights,” Clearwater General Manager Dirk Aaron said.

The district’s website, https:// www.cuwcd.org, provides updated information on the county’s underground water resources as well as a drought monitor and a GIS map platform allowing residents to learn about their property’s site-

specific geology. The platform is also a repository of information about sitespecific wells across the county.

Through an elaborate network of well monitors, Clearwater is able to measure the groundwater in various areas of the district. Clearwater collaborates with the Texas Water Development Board, which runs waterdatafortexas.org, and is a key partner in the governor’s initiative to create the TexMesonet Weather System, which provides live data at www.texmesonet.org.

The district’s educational features include a mobile classroom for schools, groups, fairs and neighborhoods to provide a deeper understanding of our aquifers and the local geology of Bell County. Clearwater also has a YouTube channel: https://tinyurl.com/bdfunvxt.

More information as well as annual reports and financial audits can be found online at www.cuwcd.org. The district is at 700 Kennedy Court in Belton. Call 254-933-0120.

Central Texas Council of Governments helps area grow, improve The Central Texas Council of Governments is an association of cities, counties, school districts and special districts spanning a region of seven counties in Central Texas. The purpose is to help communities work together on services targeting economic development and regional planning, services for the elderly and housing assistance.

The council was established in 1968 as a result of state legislation that served local government by planning for common needs and helping municipalities improve regional development. The council has no regulatory or taxing ability, but it helps the region identify areas it can strengthen and develop.

The council’s governing body includes representatives from each of its municipalities. When representatives see a need in their district, they bring it before the entire group to decide which projects take priority.

The Council serves nearly 489,000 residents in Central Texas. Representatives are chosen annually. The representatives elect the CTCOG Executive Committee, which appoints an executive director who makes all policies and gives the official approval for undertakings of the council. The current executive director is Jim Reed. Other directors include George Losoya, director of Area Agency on Aging; Uryan Nelson, director of Planning and Regional Services; Michael Irvine, director of Finance; and Carmen Lim, director of Housing Division.

The committees work alongside a professional staff that answers to Reed.

The council also forms committees dedicated to technical, study, policy work, and takes on special projects on a fee-for-service basis. Each jurisdiction pays individual dues, which allow them to take advantage of state-funded financial assistance. CTCOG took over the Section 8 housing voucher program from the Killeen Housing Authority in November. The office is at 2180 N. Main St., Belton. Call 254-770-2200, email info@ctcog.org or go to ctcog.org.

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MILITARY

Nearly 35,000 troops call the Great Place home Fort Cavazos, nicknamed the “Great Place,” is one of the largest military installations in the free world.

With nearly 35,000 troops and nearly 220,000 acres of training ground, Fort Cavazos is big.

An economic driver in the state, the Texas Comptroller’s Office has said the post had an economic impact of nearly $39.09 billion statewide in 2023.

The post services more than 500,000 area active-duty soldiers, family members and retirees at its commissaries, post exchanges, Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center and other facilities.

It is, by far, the biggest employer of the Killeen-area economy. Major units include III Armored Corps, 1st Cavalry Division, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, First Army Division West and the 13th Expeditionary Sustainment Command.

Other brigade-size units include the U.S. Army Operational Test Command, 89th Military Police Brigade, 1st Medical Brigade, 36th Engineer Brigade, 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, 48th Chemical Brigade, 504th Military Intelligence Brigade, and the 11th Corps Signal Brigade.

Lt. Gen. Kevin Admiral currently commands III Corps and Fort Cavazos.

He joined the Phantom Corps in early August.

III Armored Corps Command Sgt. Maj. John P. McDwyer joined the command team in June 2023.

Fort Cavazos’ deputy commander for maneuver is Maj. Gen. Geoff Van Epps. The deputy commander for support is British Maj. Gen. Benjamin J. Cattermole.

Fort Cavazos’ garrison commander is Col. Lakicia Stokes, who took command in July 2023. The garrison command sergeant major is Command Sgt. Maj. Loyd Rhoades, who joined the team in October.

Across the post, most of the original World War II-era buildings have been torn down to make room for modern brick-and-stone buildings. Construction on a new $24 million Training Support Center was completed in 2017. The center was dedicated in honor of 1st Cavalry Division Medal of Honor

Friends and family of 3rd Cavalry troopers reunite with soldiers at Cooper Field on Sept. 18.

MAJOR FORT CAVAZOS UNITS

III Corps 1st Cavalry Division First Army Division West 13th Armored Corps Sustainment Command U.S. Army Operational Test Command 1st Medical Brigade 3rd Cavalry Regiment 3rd Security Force Assistance Brigade 36th Engineer Brigade 48th Chemical Brigade 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade 85th Civil Affairs Brigade 89th Military Police Brigade 407th Army Field Support Brigade 418th Contracting Support Brigade 504th Military Intelligence Brigade Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center Warrior Transition Brigade 11th Theater Tactical Signal Brigade 901st Contracting Support Battalion Noncommissioned Officer Academy Hood Mobilization Brigade 3rd Air Support Operations Group (Air Force) recipient Master Sgt. Mike Castaneda Pena, who was killed in action Sept. 5, 1950, at Waegwan, South Korea.

Being the first in the digitized warfare arena and having the most modern equipment, Fort Cavazos soldiers use state-of-the-art training facilities.

Housed in the Close Combat Tactical Trainer are exact replicas of tank and Bradley fighting vehicle crew compartments, which allow troops to play realistic video-game-type scenarios

to familiarize themselves with the equipment and how to interact as a unit before taking the high-dollar equipment to the field.

Its motor pools and hangars hold more than 260 tanks, 165 aircraft and 320 Strykers.

Two urban training areas offer soldiers the chance to practice the type of warfare they may face during missions to Iraq, Afghanistan or other areas. Once in the field, soldiers find themselves in a semi-arid terrain that has 413 miles of paved roads and 449 miles of dirt roads. Live-fire exercises take place on more than 60 ranges, which support all Army weapons and most aerial weapons with eight automated, multipurpose ranges for digitized units and six automated smallarms ranges.

Bombs that weigh up to 2,000 pounds can be handled and military aircraft have the ability to maneuver in restricted airspace to 45,000 feet.

The Robert Gray Army Airfield radar approach control center controls air space within a 60-mile radius of Fort Cavazos from the surface to 12,000 feet.

To monitor and secure this environment, the facility interfaces with other federal aviation administration air route traffic control centers located across the state in Houston, Waco and Austin. The collaboration of these FAA centers enables nearly 3,000 flights each year with safe passage to and from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.

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MILITARY

Get to know the major units stationed at Fort Cavazos

1ST CAVALRY DIVISION

Known as America’s First Team, the 1st Cavalry Division is currently under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Thomas M. Feltey, who took command in July 2024. The command sergeant major is Command Sgt. Maj. LeVares J. Jackson, Sr. It has three armored-brigade combat teams and an air cavalry brigade, as well as artillery and sustainment units and the Division Cavalry.

More than 15,000 soldiers wear the unit’s distinctive, large patch. Two unique assets are the Division Band and the Horse Cavalry Detachment, a company-sized unit with more than 30 horses to present a living history of the cavalry. The division fought in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan, among others. The division was first stationed at Fort Cavazos in 1971.

FIRST ARMY DIVISION WEST

First Army Division West has the unique mission of training, readiness oversight and mobilization for U.S. Army Reserve and Army National Guard units. The division is headquartered at Fort Cavazos and commanded by Maj. Gen. William A. Ryan III. It has four training brigades stationed at Fort Cavazos and other installations.

OPERATIONAL TEST COMMAND

U.S. Army Operational Test Command is headquartered at West Fort Cavazos and commanded by Brig. Gen. ShannonMikal Lucas. As the Army’s only independent testing organization, it plans, conducts and reports rigorous operational tests, assessments and experiments in order to provide essential information for the acquisition and fielding of warfighting systems.

The command has about 240 soldiers and employs about 340 Department of the Army civilians to maintain its operations and has directorates at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and Fort Bliss.

Lt. Gen. Kevin Admiral, right, receives the unit colors of III Corps from Gen. Andrew Poppas.

3RD CAVALRY REGIMENT

The 3rd Cavalry Regiment is led by Col. Jeffrey Barta, the 80th commander of the regiment. On order, the “Brave Rifles” deploy to designated contingency area of operations by sea, land or air and conducts combined arms operations to prevent conflict, shape the operational environment and win any fight. The 3rd Cavalry Regiment uses the battle cry “AI-EE-YAH!”

13TH SUSTAINMENT COMMAND

The 13th Armored Corps Sustainment Command is led by Col. Sean P. Kelly. Its mission is to deploy, provide command and control of assigned, attached and operationally controlled units, and plan and provide sustainment, distribution and health service support for fullspectrum operations. Nicknamed “Lucky 13,” 13th ACSC also maintains training and readiness authority over dozens of units across the western U.S.

AIR FORCE

The 3rd Air Support Operations Group and its two squadrons provide direct support to Army units for joint operations. The 3rd Weather Squadron provides weather data for Fort Cavazos, while the 9th Air Support Operations Squadron advises and assists 1st Cavalry Division and its subordinate commands with coordinating air support during operations.

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PLACES TO KNOW ON POST

A Defense Department ID card is required to drive through the Fort Cavazos gates. Non-military personnel may gain access by obtaining a pass from the visitor’s center.

To get a pass, visitors will need to provide their current vehicle registration, proof of insurance, license plate number, destination on post and a photo ID. Visitors may apply online for a pass from their computer or mobile device at pass.aie.army.mil. Visitors will receive a background check.

If approved, they can proceed to a gate, scan the identification used for access or use the kiosks at the Visitor Welcome Center for issuance of their pass.

A sponsor is not required when applying for a pass online but does require a valid purpose for visiting Fort Cavazos. This could include a day pass, multi-day pass, visiting family or friends, business, recreation, or recurring visits.

MARVIN LEATH VISITORS CENTER Building 69012 Open 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily Phone: 254-287-9909 COPELAND SOLDIER SERVICE CENTER Building 18010 Phone: 254-287-3832 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY Building 69005 Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays Phone: 254-532-9786 FAMILY HOUSING LEASING OFFICE Building 18010, Suite B209 Phone: 254-220-4799 VILLAGE OFFICES • Comanche I & II Villages, 51814-1 Comanche Ave., 254-285-2243.

• Comanche III Village, 53301 Drum Song Trail, 254-285-2289.

• Kouma & Montague Villages, 48810 Washington St., 254-285-2245.

• MChaffee, Heritage Heights, McNair, Patton & Wainwright Villages, 6310 Tank Destroyer, 254285-2251.

• Pershing & Venable Villages, 5649-2 Lockridge Loop, 254-285-2242.

MILITARY

New museum at Fort Cavazos helps tell Army’s story Fort Cavazos has strong ties with armored and mechanized warfare going back to its foundation as Camp Hood in 1942. The Army post was originally built to test tank destroyers and train their crews for service in World War II. Today, it is the home of III Armored Corps, along with two of the most storied cavalry units in the Army.

The 1st Cavalry Division and 3rd Cavalry Regiment once had their own dedicated museums to tell their stories. As of this year, there is a new place to see and hear the history of the American mounted soldier.

NATIONAL MOUNTED WARRIOR MUSEUM

The Mounted Warrior Museum opened Sept. 19. Located just outside the main gate, the 28,700-square-foot facility aims to provide a unique educational experience, preserving and interpreting the story of mounted units and soldiers who have served at Fort Cavazos and worldwide, and the rich history, values and heritage of Killeen/Central Texas.

Soldiers will help lead tours at the National Mounted Warrior Museum at Fort Cavazos.

A project over a decade in the works, the museum spent much of the summer finalizing the exhibits, curated by Department of the Army historians.

Tanks, reconnaissance vehicles and armored personnel carriers line the halls to show the evolution of mounted troops in combat, from the days of

cavalrymen on horseback to powerful armored formations of the modern age.

One special, temporary exhibit added recently is a special display of photographs from Army photographer Pfc. Leander Zwick documenting the Allied invasion of France in World War II, from the initial storming of beaches to VII Corps’ fight for Cherbourg, France.

Visitors may notice uniformed soldiers working as members of the staff. These troops are pulled from various units around Fort Cavazos, and will be doing everything from grounds maintenance to greeting people.

The National Mounted Warfare foundation, a major driving force behind the NMWM’s construction, has big plans for its future. Classroom space for visiting students and a venue for conferences are among the plans for future development of the museum.

To learn more about the museum, go to nmwfoundation.org/about-themuseum.

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MILITARY

Post exchange stores serve military members, families

The Army and Air Force Exchange Services provides goods and services to military personnel and family members.

The Clear Creek Shopping Center features clothing, shoes, cosmetics, jewelry, hardware, books and magazines, outdoor living, toys and a variety of specialty stores and restaurants.

The TJ Mills Starbucks is the first to boast a drive-thru on an Army installation. Also new is a Qdoba Mexican Eats inside the AAFES Food Court.

Customers on Clear Creek Road can get a caffeine fix from the Starbucks inside Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, which also includes a retail store and barber shop. Down the street is a two-in-one restaurant of Burger King and Popeye’s.

Lucky’s Cafe, an expansion of the popular Dallas location, serves classic American diner fare from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day.

To use these facilities, an individual must present a military ID or military dependent ID when paying for goods and services, except at restaurants. All post visitors are authorized to dine at all Fort Cavazos exchange facilities. Post exchanges are tax exempt.

Soldiers and their families can shop at the Warrior Way Commissary on Fort Cavazos.

The Clear Creek Shopping Center, Building 4250, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Call 254-532-7200.

Shopping is also available online at www.shopmyexchange.com.

COMMISSARIES

Fort Cavazos has two commissaries,

one on Clear Creek Road and the other at the intersection of Warrior Way and 10th Street.

A military ID card or a dependent card is required to shop in the commissaries, which are grocery stores for the military.

For more information, go to commissaries.com.

Central Texas AUSA chapter supports local soldiers The Central Texas Chapter of the Association of the United States Army is not only the biggest in the country, but also one of the most active — to include the largest active-duty unit membership in the Army, the 1st Cavalry Division.

AUSA members include retired military personnel, with combat experience dating back to World War II, and local businesspeople. Activeduty soldiers also attend meetings.

Since 1950, the Association of the United States Army, created by the Army for the Army, has worked to support all aspects of national security while advancing the interests of America’s Army and the men and women who serve. Its mission is

“Voice for the Army — Support for the Soldier.”

The local chapter president is Chris Albus, who is a retired Army colonel.

The chapter serves as the liaison between the Army and local civilian communities; as well as help educate the public about the needs for a strong national defense and the Army. It is involved in a variety of programs to help support deployed and mobilized soldiers and their families.

Some activities include general membership meetings with highprofile guest speakers, community involvement events, special events honoring the Army and outstanding soldiers, professional development forums, scholarships, and a strong

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soldier support program; helping soldiers and their families in need.

AUSA is the only professional association for the entire Army, according to the organization’s website, ausa.org. The organization advocates for the men and women in uniform who serve and supports the soldiers and the civilians and families who work alongside of them in the local communities which support them.

The association holds four local general membership meetings a year, in addition to regular charitable events. A large local contingent also travels to the national conference in October in Washington, D.C. For more information, go to www.ausa.org.

CORYELL COUNTY

Copperas Cove takes pride in its family friendliness As Copperas Cove experiences population growth, it seeks more industrial and business opportunities to help support residents.

The city’s history dates back to when the cattle industry cut through the region on the Chisholm Trail in the 1870s. A resident petition for a post office named the settlement “Cove” but added “Coperas” to reflect the mineral taste of the spring water; the name was later changed to Copperas Cove.

Marsden Ogletree became the first postmaster in 1879 and lends his name to Ogletree Gap Preserve, a 218-acre municipal park on the west side of the city that contains the original post office.

Today, Copperas Cove is the largest city in Coryell County, home to many retirees, active-duty military and families. Copperas Cove has an estimated population of 37,225 residents per the 2020 Census; which has more recently been estimated at 39,627 residents per a 2024 City Resolution.

Residents are served by four major entities — the City of Copperas Cove Municipal Government, the Copperas Cove Economic Development Corporation, the Copperas Cove Independent School District, and the Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau.

Developers continue construction in several residential subdivisions.

The Shops at Five Hills retail center continues to be a hub for city shoppers, while The Narrows Business and Technology Park has available space for business growth or expansion.

Construction on a Texas Department of Transportation median project for a portion of the Business U.S. 190 corridor was recently completed. It includes sidewalks, medians, dedicated turn lanes, bicycle lane, pedestrian crossings, and upgraded drainage infrastructure from Avenue D to Constitution Drive.

The improvement project is intended to provide safety for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians as they travel along the main highway. The roadway remains three lanes in each direction, but now includes raised medians with left turncontrolled access.

Copperas Cove Chamber President Beth Galik-Carney and Keep Copperas Cove Beautiful Commissioner Lina Lapierre celebrate the new Rabbit Fest mural in the Chamber office.

Cove’s elected leaders and top administrators The Copperas Cove City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, with Workshop Meetings beginning at 5 p.m., followed by Regular Meetings beginning at 6 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, at 508 S. Second Street.

Mayor: Dan D. Yancey, first term expires November 2024 Place 1: Joann Courtland, Mayor Pro Tem, second term expires November 2024 Place 2: Fred Chavez, second term expires November 2024 Place 3: Shawn Alzona, first term expires November 2025 Place 4: John Hale, first term expires November 2025 Place 5: Dale Treadway, first term expires in November 2025 Place 6: Vonya Hart, second term expires November 2026 Place 7: Jack Smith, second term expires November 2026 City Manager: Ryan Haverlah, rhaverlah@copperascovetx.gov Financial Services Director: Velia Key, vkey@copperascovetx.gov Budget Director: Ariana Beckman, abeckman@copperascovetx.gov Chief of Police: Eddie Wilson, ewilson@copperascovetx.gov Fire Chief: Gary Young, gyoung@copperascovetx.gov City Secretary: Lisa Wilson, lwilson@copperascovetx.gov Human Resources Director: Jeff Davis, rdavis@copperascovetx.gov Public Relations Director: Kevin Keller, kkeller@copperascovetx.gov Parks & Recreation Director: Jeff Stoddard, jstoddard@copperascovetx.gov Development Services Director: Bobby Lewis, rlewis@copperascovetx.gov Public Works Director: Scott Osburn, sosburn@copperascovetx.gov Information Technology Director: Scot Mullican, smullican@copperascovetx.gov Learn more about the city and its services at copperascovetx.gov.

Copperas Cove has a variety of events and activities each year. Rabbit Fest brings an estimated 25,000 people to Copperas Cove during the third weekend in May and features a parade, carnival, vendor market, and live entertainment. The city continues to promote the festival and similar events in hopes of drawing more visitors from around the area and increasing

overnight stays at local hotels.

The Chamber of Commerce serves as a hub for information about events, tourism and business opportunities.

The Copperas Cove Parks and Recreation Department offers several events, including the 5K Run to the Polar Bear Plunge, Fishing in the Park, Easter Egg Round-Up, Fall-O-Ween Festival, and the Spring Festival.

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CORYELL COUNTY

Gatesville known as the ‘Spur Capital of Texas’

The small town of Gatesville is about 35 miles northwest of Killeen.

The Coryell County Courthouse on the town square is continuing to be one of the most beautiful in Texas. It was built with limestone quarried from just west of town across the Leon River and dedicated in 1907.

The Coryell Museum Historical Center at 718 Main St., is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

Admission is free, but donations are welcomed. The museum has what is believed to be the world’s largest collection of spurs (over 10,000 sets), including ones from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa.

Accordingly, in 2001, then-Gov. Rick Perry signed a bill officially naming the city as the “Spur Capital of Texas” in honor of former Gatesville High School coach Lloyd Mitchell’s spur donation.

The large museum also houses a “Days of Old” exhibit and the original, one-room log jail.

Several boutiques and specialty shops offer shopping diversions for downtown visitors and The Feed Mill, a familyowned restaurant, provides home-style cooking in a unique atmosphere, just

Members of the American Legion Post 42 of Gatesville take part in a Veterans Day parade.

one block from the courthouse.

Two city parks, near downtown provide ample outdoor activities. Raby Park is home to a free seasonal splash park, municipal swimming pool, an 18 hole disc golf course, along with a playground and picnic areas along a shady creek. Faunt Le Roy Park is just a block away, on the banks of the Leon River and features shady picnic and playground areas, and a large pavilion that can be reserved for special events.

Five RV hookups are also available for short term stays in the park. The pavilion and RV spots can be reserved

by calling 254-499-0102. A challenging disc golf course starts in Raby Park and continues across the walking trail to Faunt Le Roy Park.

The Gatesville Country Club at 1308 Golf Course Road is an 18-hole semiprivate course. The front nine features tree-lined fairways and two par 5s under 500 yards. Call 254-865-6917 or visit GatesvilleCC.com for more information or to reserve a tee time.

The Last Drive-In Picture Show, which has been in operation since 1950, offers double features on first-run pictures starting at dusk, seven nights a week.

At $10 a carload, they offer a fun and affordable night out. A concession stand is available, or you can bring a cooler.

Call 254-865-8445 to hear what's playing.

Bare Bones BBQ is the home of The Bone Yard outdoor concert venue, hosting acts ranging from local talent to Kevin Fowler, William Clark Green and Gene Watson.

The community frequently holds special events, including the annual Rodeo, SpurFest, Cruzin Cruzers Car Show and Old Time Fiddle Contest.

For more information about dining, shopping, lodging and events, go to VisitGatesvilleTX.com.

Coryell County history goes back to early days of Texas According to the county website, Coryell County was created by the Texas Legislature in 1854 and is named after James Coryell, an early explorer of the region.

Gatesville, the county seat, grew up around Fort Gates, established in 1849 to protect settlers.

The habitation of Coryell County dates as far back as 4500 B.C. The Tonkawa, Lipan Apache, Kiowa and Comanche were among the tribes who migrated through the area.

Land for a courthouse square was acquired and a one-story framed structure was constructed in 1865 on a corner presently occupied by a city filling station. In 1872, a two-story structure of native white limestone

was erected on this property and served as a focus of county business for the next 25 years.

On May 15, 1897, architect W.C. Dodson was commissioned to draw plans and specifications for a third courthouse. The flag of Coryell County was designed by Donald K. Fisher, a member of the Commissioners’ Court, and adopted on Feb. 24, 1986, in preparation for a number of anniversary events. In gold on white, it depicts the county seal and the date of the county’s creation and organization, 1854.

Coryell County’s largest city continues to be Copperas Cove, with a population of just over 37,000.

Gatesville has just over 16,000

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residents, according to the 2020 U.S. census, and is home to five state prisons and one county jail as part of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Other communities in the county include Evant, Jonesboro and Oglesby.

The county’s population is just over 85,000 within an area of 1,057 square miles.

The county government is administered by the five-member Coryell County Commissioners’ Court: County Judge Roger Miller; Precinct 1, Kyle Matthews; Precinct 2, Scott Weddle; Precinct 3, Ryan Basham; and Precinct 4, Keith Taylor.

For more information, go to www. coryellcounty.org or call 254-865-5911.

LAMPASAS COUNTY

Kempner touts its family values and rural lifestyle Kempner was founded in 1882 and was named after Harris Kempner, a Texas philanthropist, banker and railroad magnate.

The city incorporated in August 1997, and according to the 2024 census figures has a population of 1,317. The city, a Type A General Law Municipality, is a community of rural living and is inspired by traditional family values.

The mission of the elected government and city staff is to build a culture of honesty, high morals, and exceptional ethics, to provide for the financial stability of the city, to establish ordinances to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens, to abate nuisances that impair the quality of life and lower property values, to stimulate economic development for the benefit of the city and to always provide open government in compliance with established laws.

Idle Creek Farms in Kempner offers fall-themed goods, a snack bar, a jump pad and hayrides on weekends in October and early November.

Mayor John “JW” Wilkerson was elected in 2021 and was reelected in 2023.

Still focusing on “Moving Forward,” in 2024 he said: “I believe all of us were granted the God-given rights to be free Americans. Regardless of race, religion, creed or any other means in which you identify yourself, know that you and your voice are welcome here.

Lampasas offers lots of rustic charm Lampasas sits between charming rustic towns and big-city conveniences, with a population of about 7,500 and a short, 15-minute drive to Copperas Cove.

Lampasas — about 30 miles west of Killeen — was founded in 1850 and incorporated in 1883.

Located in Central Texas, the city connects to major highways in five directions and serves as the gateway to the Texas Hill Country, which includes vast recreational areas.

Lampasas has stuff for people of different interests, including those who enjoy art.

Murals throughout the city are created and designed by a group of local volunteers on the Vision Lampasas Art Committee. The Lampasas Association for the Arts is a nonprofit organization that operates the Hanna Springs Sculpture Garden at Campbell Park, 501 E. North Ave. Lampasas is also home of mineral springs that produce more than 3,000,000 gallons of water daily.

Home to several mineral springs along the Sulphur Creek branch of the Lampasas River, the springs continue

to be a main tourist attraction for locals and visitors from afar.

An annual festival, Spring Ho, commemorates the rejuvenating power of the water. The annual Spring Ho Festival was founded in 1972 by residents Gary Martin and Milton Boone and is traditionally held on the second full week in July.

Lampasas is run by a council-manager style of government led by Mayor Herb Pearce, Mayor Pro Tem Zachary Morris (Place 1), and Council members Eric Hernandez (Place 2), Myles Haider (Place 3), Catherine Kuehne (Place 4), Davis Keele (Place 5), and Charlie Pratus (Place 6), as well as City Manager Finley deGraffenried.

Council members and the mayor are elected at-large for two-year terms, The council, which meets at 6 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of every month at the Jack Calvert Municipal Building at 302 E. Third St., is responsible for adopting budgets, determining policies, appointing the city manager and approving legislation.

Learn more about the city at www. lampasas.org.

Your thoughts and concerns may be outweighed by the will of the majority, however your independent rights will be honored here.

“On behalf of this little community, I welcome you here and know that this community will do the same. Never hesitate to reach out to the city if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.”

Council members include David Richardson (Place 1), Thomas Combs (Place 2), Rob Green (Place 3), Dan Long (Place 4) and Debra Hernandez (Place 5).

The city manager is Rebecca D. Ramos.

Kempner elections for city council members are in May. The council meets at 6 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Kempner City Hall, 12288 E. Highway 190. More information is available at www.KempnerTX.gov.

Gateway to the Hill Country

Lampasas County lies as a gateway to the Texas Hill County and Bend State Park.

Take a dip or swim in Hancock Pool — the oldest spring-fed free flow swimming pool in the state, it’s 72 degrees year-round.

You can take a tour of the historic County Courthouse. Built in 1883, it is the third-oldest county courthouse currently in use.

The county is home to a population of 21,627. It offers great schools, medical facilities, hunting and fishing, job opportunities, restaurants and shopping, as well as several award-winning wineries. Visit the Farmer’s Market and Crafts Show around the historic courthouse in downtown Lampasas on Saturdays from March to December, or play golf at the Municipal Golf Course along Sulphur Creek.

Check out the newly developed Industrial Park located just south of Lampasas on U.S. Highway 183.

For more information, go to www.lampasaschamber.org.

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TRANSPORTATION

HOP now supporting ride-share and micro-transit service

The Hill Country Transit District, which operates The HOP, a regional public transit system, is fully transitioned to a new micro-transit service that resembles ride-share services like Uber or Lyft.

The Hill Country Transit District’s new service, termed micro-transit, features small, 9- to 12-passenger buses — many of them wheelchair accessible — that pick riders up at their homes or other locations and take them directly to their in-town destination, for just $2 a ride.

For riders traveling to another town in the service area, the mini-bus will pick them up and take them to the nearest transfer point in that city and wait, at most, around 30 minutes for the next connector bus. The connector bus then takes riders to a stop near their destination.

Riders can order a ride through an app, and then track the vehicle along its route. For those without a smartphone, the system can be accessed through basic telephone service as well.

The HOP no longer operates fixed

Harker Heights Mayor Michael Blomquist, center, helps cut the ribbon on a new Hill Country Transit District van, which is being used in the HOP’s micro-transit system that debuted in September.

routes in Killeen, Copperas Cove, Harker Heights, Belton or Temple.

The rural service covers over 9,000 square miles in Milam, Bell, Coryell, Hamilton, Mills, Lampasas, San Saba, Llano and Mason counties.

Scheduling hours for rural service are

between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays. No weekend service is offered.

To schedule a trip in these counties please call 254-933-3700 ext. 5014 or tollfree 1-800-791-9601 ext. 5014. Visit the website at www.takethehop.com or call 254-933-3700 for more information.

Killeen Regional Airport connects travelers to larger hubs The Killeen Regional Airport, formerly known as the KilleenFort Hood Regional Airport, offers worldwide access, via a major airline.

American Airlines offers flights daily to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, which connects travelers globally.

The airport, at 8101 Clear Creek Road in Killeen, is easily accessed via improved area highways. Paid shortand long-term parking is adjacent to the terminal building; the first half hour is free. Certain specialty military plate holders, who qualify, are exempt from parking fees in the long term lot.

Rental car companies, as well as rideshare services, provide ground transportation.

The Ted C. Connell Terminal Building has food, beverage and gift concessions — Rotor and Wings Grill/

Co-Pilot Coffee and Cantina, and Boarding Time Gifts along with an ATM. The airport dedicated its first and only hangar in September 2022. A second hangar will be completed this fall. The airport honors Robert Gray, a Killeen native, who was a pilot on the famous Doolittle Raid in 1942.

Robert Gray Army Airfield is named after him and a 7-foot bronze statue and memorabilia are displayed in the terminal.

Call 254-501-6100 or go to www.

FlyGRK.com for more information.

SKYLARK FIELD

The city’s general aviation airport serves private aircraft, charter jets and aviation businesses.

The airfield, at 1523 Stonetree Drive, does not offer commercial airline

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passenger service. It has a 5,500-foot runway with a RNAV (GPS) approach to Runway 01, making it a popular choice for private and business aircraft.

Aviation fuel sales, T-hangar and tiedown space rentals and tenant services are available.

A new 3,000-square foot general aviation terminal will begin construction in the fall of 2024.

About 65 single and multi-engine aircraft are based at Skylark Field.

The airfield is home to the Central Texas College Aviation Program, Freedom Air Helicopters and Skydive Addiction.

The General Aviation Building is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., operating the FBO 7 days a week except holidays.

Call 254-501-8728 or go to www. skylarkfield.net for more information.

TRANSPORTATION

Area highway projects add lanes to improve mobility Several road projects are planned in the Central Texas area:

INTERSTATE 14

The area’s main east-west thoroughfare — U.S. Highway 190 — received its official designation as Interstate 15 in January 2017.

A project to add two lanes to the roadway from Clarke Road, west of Killeen, to the Coryell County/ Lampasas County line, is tentatively planned for 2026. Crews also are working to reconstruct and widen the roadway from I-35 to Rogers. The approximate cost is $700 million, and is set for construction during the FY 2027-2032 timeframe.

INTERSTATE 35

A $2.5 billion TxDOT project, from Salado to Hillsboro also improves frontage roads and ramps, reconstructs bridges and overpasses and interchanges. It was funded through federal stimulus money along with

a voter-approved road construction initiative. I-35 in Waco from south SL 340 to 12th street, the last remaining portion of the interstate through Waco that has not been recently upgraded, will be expanded from 6 to 8 lanes. The cost is approximately $250 million is scheduled to start in the spring of 2025.

BUSINESS 190

A $5 million project to add a shareduse lane, raised medians and sidewalks and resurface the roadway from Constitution Drive to FM 116 was expected to be completed this year.

FARM-TO-MARKET 116

A $14 million safety improvement project to add an overpass at State Highway 9 and FM 116 in Copperas Cove is scheduled to complete in 2024.

LOOP 121

The project on Loop 121 to upgrade the roadway from a two-lane road to a four-lane divided road with a raised

median is ongoing. The new roadway will extend from FM 439 to I-14. It is scheduled to complete in late 2024.

STATE HIGHWAY 9

A $1.2 million project to add a newly constructed U-turn within the SH 9 and Business 190 intersection near Copperas Cove will allow eastbound SH 9 traffic to head westbound on Business 190, enhancing mobility.

STATE HIGHWAY 195

TxDOT is currently constructing a concrete median barrier at State Highway 195. The nearly 7-mile project is funded under the 2021 Highway Safety Improvement Program and will cost approximately $5.8 million.

The installation of the 3.5-foot-tall median barrier will require various lane closures throughout the project, which is expected to be completed in early 2025. The project aims to enhance safety along the corridor for motorists by reducing collisions, TxDOT said.

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EDUCATION

Cove ISD students excel in academics, athletics, arts

The Copperas Cove Independent School District is a growing school district in the greater Fort Cavazos area.

With an area of about 57 square miles, Copperas Cove ISD is mostly in Coryell County but extends into a small area of Bell County.

The district has a strong presence of active-duty military and retired veterans living within Copperas Cove ISD’s coverage area.

Almost half of the district’s approximately 8,000 students are military-connected and all 11 campuses are Purple Star Designated Campuses, the 13th district in Texas to achieve the designations district-wide.

CCISD includes one Pre-K campus, six elementary schools (K-5), two junior high schools (6-8), one traditional high school (9-12) and one non-traditional high school of choice (9-12).

CCISD provides students with a smalltown feel, which reaches beyond the neighborhood and into the classrooms, but also some of the programs commonly associated with larger metropolitan areas.

Copperas Cove High School and Crossroads High School, a nontraditional school of choice, offer more than 30 Industry Based Certifications across 12 areas of study in Career & Technical Education.

Additionally, Copperas Cove offers multiple paths for high school students to earn college and dual credit, including the Early College program with Central Texas College, Tarleton State University, McMurry University in Abilene and Ranger College, alongside Advanced Placement courses.

With CCISD’s proximity to Fort Cavazos, values including hard work,

Copperas Cove's Trishstin Glass (2) catches a 16yard touchdown pass against Leander Glenn.

respect and other honorable virtues are instilled in its students, and those translate into academics.

House Creek Elementary was recently named the best school in the nation for military families by the Military Child Education Coalition, in addition to its designation as a National Blue Ribbon School.

In the 2022 accountability ratings, the most recent ones released by the state as of press time, CCISD scored a high “B” rating, overall, with more than one-third of the district’s campuses receiving an “A” rating.

The district has also won multiple awards for its efforts in counseling, had

six campuses named Common Sense Schools for dedication and commitment to helping students think critically and use technology responsibly and it has never received lower than a “Superior” rating in the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas, the highest possible.

In the fall of 2023, Workforce Solutions of Central Texas awarded Copperas Cove ISD the 2023 Torch Workforce Education Impact Award for its efforts in Career &Technical Education.

CCISD’s Army JROTC program is one of several extra-curricular programs that has won multiple awards. The Copperettes dance team has won national championships, the CCHS cheerleading program routinely a UIL State Finalist and the Pride of Cove Marching Band and color guard is highly-competitive.

Six CCISD campuses received “Best of Schools” designations from the U.S. News and World Report in March 2024.

In 2024, the Texas Association of School Business Officials issued CCISD its Award of Merit for the district’s efforts in following state-preferred purchasing guidelines.

The 2024 graduating class graduated at 98% College-, Career- and MilitaryPrepared, as outlined in TEA accountability standards, the highest mark in school history. The 2024 class from Copperas Cove High School earned more than $3 million in scholarships for their continued education.

The approved budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year in Copperas Cove ISD is about $96.2 million, with $89.4 million of that for general operations.

To learn more about Copperas Cove schools or to become a Bulldawg, go to www.ccisd.com or call 254-547-1227.

MCEC helps military children be college and workforce ready The Military Child Education Coalition serves the children of those who serve the nation in the Armed Services.

MCEC supports all militaryconnected children by educating, advocating, and collaborating

to resolve education challenges associated with the military lifestyle.

As a global nonprofit, MCEC delivers programs, services, and professional development to meet the needs of military-connected students, parents, and professionals to ensure every

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military-connected child is college-, work-, and life-ready.

The coalition is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 909 Mountain Lion Circle in Harker Heights. Learn more by calling 254-9531923 or go to MilitaryChild.org.

EDUCATION

Killeen ISD serves the most students in Central Texas The Killeen Independent School District, the largest school system in the area and one of the most diverse in the state, provides a growing list of learning options for students from prekindergarten through graduation.

At just over 43,000 students, KISD is the 24th largest in Texas. It is also the fourth most diverse district in the state.

Killeen ISD opened its 12th middle school this fall. Dr. Jimmie Don Aycock Middle School, or JDA as the school community calls it, is adjacent to Chaparral High School in a fast-growing corridor in south Killeen.

The new middle school is named for the former Texas state representative who championed career and technical education in Texas.

Killeen ISD includes the cities of Killeen, Harker Heights and Nolanville, as well as Fort Cavazos. The school district enjoys a strong relationship with the military installation that includes an adopt-a-school program with units paired with campuses.

Peebles Elementary School students and staff participate in a Hispanic Heritage celebration.

The Killeen school district includes 31 elementary schools, 12 middle schools, five comprehensive high schools, three special campuses, a career center, and an early college high school. Students in the district have access to free breakfast.

Thirty-eight KISD campuses have

earned the Purple Star designation from the Texas Education Agency.

The designation is only awarded to campuses that are supportive and committed to meeting the unique needs of military-connected students.

Killeen ISD provides free, full-day pre-K for all 4- and 5-year-olds who live within the school district attendance zones. Enrollment is guaranteed for children who meet the criteria. Pre-K for 3-year-olds is available to military families who live on Fort Cavazos. Learn more at www.killeenisd.org/enroll_ec.

Killeen ISD’s website features a Military Families section for transitioning families with an assortment of resources for all grade levels. The district also coordinates four annual meetings to connect military families with resources available to them and their students.

Residents are invited to learn more about the district at www.killeenisd.org and by downloading the Killeen ISD app on the Apple or Google stores.

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EDUCATION

Salado ISD bonds will help expand district facilities

Central Texas school districts are having to adjust for a growth spurt, and Salado Independent School District in Bell County is no exception.

Now, since local voters approved a multimillion-dollar bond proposal last year, Salado ISD will be sporting a new high school in a few years. It will feature agriculture and Career and Technical Education facilities when it opens in August 2026, at a cost of $180 million.

The district broke ground in July.

“We do a great job of preparing kids for college, but not every student chooses to go to college,” Salado ISD Superintendent Michael Novotny told FME News Service at the groundbreaking ceremony. “So whether they choose to go to a four-year university, community college, a trade school or go straight into the workforce, these quality facilities will prepare them for the future. It’s going to be outstanding.”

In November 2023, voters approved Proposition A for $235,960,000;

Salado's Cade Harris, Penelope Anderson and Hayden Griesemer run in the Temple Pro-Fit Invitational on Aug. 31 at Wilson Park in Temple. The Lady Eagles won the Class 5A/6A division at the meet.

and Proposition B for $34,490,000.

Proposition B will be used for a new multipurpose community athletic complex. The bond was developed to address the influx of new students projected to enroll in the next 5-10 years.

By the 2031-32 school year, the projected enrollment is 4,150. Of the 77

school districts in Region 12, Salado ISD registered the fourth largest increase in enrollment between 2013 and 2023.

Proposition A also will be used to modernize Thomas Arnold Elementary and repurpose the existing high school as an intermediate campus.

Learn more at www.saladoisd.org.

Florence ISD experiences boost in student enrollment Florence Independent School District, like all school districts in the region, is experiencing an upward trajectory in its enrollment.

A myriad of projects are ongoing, with many funded by a $49.3 million bond package that voters passed in 2022, followed by a $4.5 million bond passed in 2024.

The second bond, which voters passed in May, will be used to cover a funding shortfall in order to complete the new elementary school and band hall projects that were approved as part of the previous bond. The district broke ground on the future Florence Elementary School on May 9. The campus will be at the intersection of North Patterson Avenue and East Tomlinson Street.

“If you have been by the new elementary site, you can see that it is really starting to take shape,” Superintendent Rick Kirkpatrick said in September. “The walls for the gym and cafeteria are almost complete, the steel in the first two wings has been erected, the deck is on the roof, and the trades are starting to install their conduit and piping. It is very exciting to see the progress. The band hall and field house at Florence High School are in the final stages of construction.”

Learn more about the school district at florenceisd.net.

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EDUCATION

Belton ISD offers award-winning academic programs The Belton Independent School District is one of the fastest-growing public school districts in Texas and it has been staying busy juggling multiple bond-funded construction projects to accommodate new families moving to the area.

In March, BISD trustees officially hired Dr. Malinda Golden as the district’s new superintendent. She has over 30 years of experience in education. Golden is overseeing projects paid for by a $173 million bond that was passed in May 2022. Since then, one new school has been built and another is in progress. James L. Burrell Elementary opened in January and accommodates 800 students.

The district’s 13th elementary campus, Hubbard Branch Elementary, is under construction at 1651 O.T. Tyler Drive in Belton and will see just as many students as Burrell Elementary.

When it opens, it “will help alleviate overcrowding in the southern part of the district as enrollment is projected to

Belton's Allie Goodnight (0) bumps the ball against Ellison High School on Oct. 8.

continue to see rapid growth annually,” according to Belton ISD. Belton High School and Lake Belton High School stand out for their awardwinning extracurricular and career and technical education programs, while Belton New Tech @Waskow is a popular school of choice open to BISD students in grades 9-12.

The district’s high schools are home to

innovative programs. Lake Belton High School offers INCubatoredu, a program of study that supports innovation and entrepreneurship. Belton High School students have the opportunity to join the Cisco Networking Academy, a learning experience that directly leads to job placement.

To read more about what’s happening in Belton ISD, go to www.bisd.net/news.

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EDUCATION

Gatesville ISD builds up community bonds Formed in the 1880s, the Gatesville Independent School District is focusing on school security, social and emotional learning, technology, facilities, and personnel to give students a quality education.

Superintendent Barrett Pollard said Gatesville continues to be a generous, supportive, familyoriented community.

“Gatesville continues to be a wonderful place to raise a family, and our school system is the hub of the community. Our students have demonstrated great success in academics, athletics, fine arts, and a large variety of other extracurricular activities.” he said in a message to the Herald.

“Over the past few years, we have placed a high priority on safety, facilities, technology, literacy, advanced academics, as well as career and technical education courses,” he said. “Our curriculum offers students a wide variety of courses that will prepare them for college, a career, or the military.”

The district has five school buildings including a primary (PKK), elementary (1-3), intermediate (4-6), junior high (7-8) and high school (9-12). The district serves approximately 2,700 students and budgeted around $35 million to operate this school year.

The district is wanting to explore a major renovation and update to the junior high campus in the near future.

There are seven school board members: Charles Ament, board president; Charles Alderson, vice president; Cheyenne Kizer, secretary; and Loyd Hopson, Calvin Ford, Mary Anne Leib, and Linda Maxwell. Alderson and Maxwell are running unopposed for election this year. The administration building is at 311 S. Lovers Lane.

For more information, call 254-8657251 or go to www.gatesvilleisd.org.

Sydney Unger and Loretta Hodges compete in girls doubles for Lampasas against Harker Heights.

Lampasas ISD surpasses CTE goals Serving approximately 3,600 students in grades pre-K through 12, the Lampasas Independent School District is a perfect match for families interested in rural living while remaining in close proximity to modern conveniences.

In addition to Superintendent Chane Rascoe, the district is overseen by a seven-member school board: President Randy Morris, Rob Borchardt, Mickey Edwards, Jeff Rutland, Ryan Shahan, Harvey Stinnett, and Sam Walker.

The district’s Career and Technical Education program has surpassed its goals and has become one of the fastestgrowing programs in the area. With the program, more students are becoming job-ready certified than ever before.

“We are very pleased with the

progress of our CTE program and have completed the expansion to our facility,” Rascoe said. “The community of Lampasas prides itself on supporting Lampasas ISD.” Having seen success in the district’s UIL athletic and academic extracurricular programs reaching post district competition in most areas, the district has developed a reputation of being an outstanding school district.

“It’s nice to live in an area with great kids and a supportive community who come together to create something so special,” Rascoe said. “We thank you, our staff, students, parents and amazing school board for their hard work in making LISD such a wonderful place.”

Learn more at www.lisdtx.org.

Communities in Schools serves 54 campuses across six districts Since its founding in 1992, Communities In Schools of Greater Central Texas has grown to serve 54 campuses in six school districts: Killeen, Copperas Cove, Temple, Belton, Salado and Jarrell.

“Communities In Schools is the nation’s largest and most effective dropout prevention organization because we do whatever it takes to keep kids in school and on the path to graduation,” Executive Director Michael Dewees said.

The purpose of CIS is to improve student achievement, help decrease the dropout rate and increase the graduation rate.

Dewees believes the program is important due to the sheer size of the school districts within the Greater Central Texas area, which serve more than 75,000 students collectively. Learn more at https://www.cis-tx.org.

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EDUCATION

Charter, private schools offer an alternative education Several charter and private schools serve as an alternative option for parents seeking to enroll their children outside of standard public education.

OAK CREEK ACADEMY

Oak Creek Academy is a nonprofit private school for students in prekindergarten through 12th grade.

Established in 2013, Oak Creek offers curriculum tailored to individual students’ needs, with in-house speech, occupational, physical and behavioral therapies. This non-graded school has a 1:5 teacher to student ratio that promotes one-on-one learning and individualized instruction. Parents also work with teachers and therapists to promote learning in and outside of the classroom.

Oak Creek is at 1020 Trimmier Road in Killeen. Call 254-526-9299 or visit www. oakcreekkilleen.org.

RICHARD MILBURN ACADEMY

The Richard Milburn Academy, students in grades nine through 12 have the opportunity to earn a high school diploma in an environment in which they feel safe, supported and valued.

Students can choose from two daily sessions to complete their nontraditional academic, career and life skills curriculum.

RMA is at 802 N. Eighth St. Call 254634-4444, or go to www.rmaschools.org.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL

St. Joseph Catholic School is a parochial classical school of the Austin Diocese School District dedicated to the Catholic education of children.

The school is accredited by the Texas Catholic Conference Education Commission which is recognized by the Texas Commissioner of Education for the purpose of accrediting Catholic schools in the state.

It’s a full-day school offering pre-K-3 through eighth grade. A Classical school teaching humanities, science, religion, band, and Latin.

The school is at 2901 E. Rancier Ave. in Killeen. Call 254-634-7272.

KILLEEN ADVENTIST JUNIOR ACADEMY

The Killeen Adventist Junior Academy is a private, tuition-based school for prekindergarten through ninth-grade.

The academy’s curriculum is distributed by the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventist Education Department while also incorporating the Common Core standards.

The mission of Killeen Adventist Junior Academy is to provide a high quality, Christ-centered education in a safe, caring, learning environment.

The academy is accredited through an extension of TEA. Call 254-699-9466. The academy is at 3412 Lake Road in Killeen.

MEMORIAL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

The Memorial Christian Academy is a private religious school. Its academic curriculum for students prekindergarten through 12th grade is based on biblical teachings and promotes a Christian worldview.

The school is accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Athletics, as well as before- and afterschool care for students, are offered.

The academy is at 4001 Trimmier Road, Killeen. Call 254-526-5403 or go to www. mcawarriors.com.

PRIORITY CHARTER SCHOOLS

Priority Charter Schools is a free, public charter school district that offers K-12 grade education in Copperas Cove, Killeen and Temple. The schools focus on individualized learning in a small and more hands-on environment.

Priority Charter Schools also offers dual credit opportunities and has free meals and transportation for students.

The Killeen location serves grades K-5 and is at 405 S. Second St. The Copperas Cove location serves grades K-12 and is at 2205 FM 3046. The Cove and Temple locations also offer tuition-based prekindergarten programs.

Call 254-499-4201 or go to https:// prioritycharterschools.org/ to learn more.

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EDUCATION

A&M-Central Texas offers bachelor’s, master’s degrees

Texas A&M University-Central Texas is the 11th regional university of the Texas A&M University System — one of the largest systems of higher education in the nation, with a statewide network of 11 universities and eight state agencies.

A&M-Central Texas is an “upperlevel” university, offering both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Admissions to the university are open for those who have earned college or university credits easily transferable into one of the university’s 20 undergraduate programs with 19 of those degree programs offered completely online. The university requires 30 hours of college credits and a 2.0 GPA for admission, and potential students don’t have to wait months after applying for admission to know they are accepted.

For undergraduate students, a team of advisors works directly with students to look at their credits, explain how those previous credits fit into their choice of degree plans, and then come up with just the right options that make the most of the college or university work already earned.

Even before students officially apply for admission, they can access all the services they’ll need via Transfer Central: make plans to choose future degree programs, work with the university’s financial aid and, if needed, and its veterans’ benefits staff.

For those who have already earned an undergraduate degree, the A&MCentral Texas Graduate School is here to offer “next level” learning. There are 18 graduate programs — nine of which are completely online. Once again, A&M-Central Texas makes the application process to graduate school straightforward. Potential students are encouraged to explore their options and be secure in the knowledge that the application processes is thoughtfully designed to make opportunities for higher education and degree attainment actually attainable.

A&M-Central Texas also offers the Bachelor’s Bonus program, which is an opportunity for undergraduate students to get more for less. Here’s how it works:

Madeleine Phillips, right, receives her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas A&M-Central Texas President Richard Rhodes during the college's graduation ceremony in August.

Students who take at least 12 hours can enroll for up to three more courses (up to 21 credit hours) and pay no additional cost (rules apply).

A&M-Central Texas also offers a guaranteed “tuition freeze” that literally locks in today’s tuition and fees for up to three years. Our tuition and fees are among of the lowest in the state, and that’s on purpose because for a degree to be attainable, it has to be affordable.

And speaking of affordable, we even make textbooks available at a reduced cost by offering all books, workbooks, and digital materials are packaged and ready to go for a flat rate of $24 per credit hour.

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The faculty to student ratio at A&MCentral Texas is 12:1 — meaning students aren’t lost or invisible in a 200seat auditorium. Programs are designed for adult learners — and about 40% of students are in their 30s.

The university’s programs have been recognized nationally by some of the most prestigious entities in higher education, including U.S. News & World Report and College for All Texans, which has described the university as one of the most affordable public universities in Texas.

Since 2009, A&M-Central Texas has awarded almost 11,000 degrees. Learn more at www.tamuct.edu.

EDUCATION

Central Texas College offers programs for diverse student body For nearly 60 years, Central Texas College has been a cornerstone of higher education in the region.

Since its founding in 1967, CTC has grown significantly, with nearly 58,000 students enrolling annually from local communities, military installations nationwide, and online learners from across the globe.

CTC is committed to offering accessible, equitable, and high-quality educational opportunities designed to foster student success, completion, and employability. The college provides a range of programs, including associate degrees and certificates, preparing students for various careers or for transferring to four-year universities.

Popular programs at CTC encompass fields such as aviation science, business administration, logistics, agricultural science, communications, computeraided drafting and design, industrial technology, mathematics, nursing, paramedicine, and computer and information technology.

For those seeking a swift career transition, CTC offers career training programs that can be completed in a year or less. These programs cover areas such as healthcare, graphic design, automotive technology, construction, manufacturing, transportation, robotics, welding, and more.

Many of these programs also prepare students for licensure, professional

The Central Texas College choir performs in April.

certifications, and credentials.

In addition to degree and certificate programs, CTC’s Continuing Education department provides career training, professional development, and personal enrichment courses. Whether you’re

aiming to gain new skills, explore hobbies, or simply enjoy learning, there’s something for everyone.

For more information about Central Texas College and how to get started, go to www.ctcd.edu.

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EDUCATION

Mary Hardin-Baylor's Kamerin Ferguson (24) breaks the plane of the goal line for a touchdown against East Texas Baptist.

UMHB prepares students for the future Founded in 1845, the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton prepares students for lives of leadership, service, and faith-informed discernment in a global society. Academic excellence, personal attention, broad-based scholarship, and a Baptist vision for education have distinguished this Christ-centered learning community for more than 179 years.

A welcoming, student-centered approach with a high standard of excellence continuously defines the core UMHB experience. Propelled by an unapologetically Christian commitment, the university is dedicated to helping students deepen their faith and integrate Christian perspectives into every dimension of life.

UMHB places student achievement first and emphasizes this through small class sizes, teaching excellence, campus activities, athletic programs, and leadership opportunities. UMHB has nearly 3,400 students from 44 states and 28 countries this academic year and offers a low 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

Over 90% of UMHB students receive some form of financial aid, and the university awarded more than $50 million in grants and scholarships last year.

The university offers bachelor’s

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degrees in more than 65 undergraduate majors, ten master’s degree programs, and two doctoral degrees. It recently expanded its online offerings by launching several new programs that significantly broaden access to a UMHB education, regardless of location.

The Marek-Smith Center for Teacher Preparation, a groundbreaking 12,808-square-foot training facility to prepare general and special education majors for various academic environments, is officially open and will lead the way for special education training through innovative spaces that incorporate immersive, multisensory, and interactive equipment.

Construction continues on the university’s Jane and Mac Hickerson Crusader Golf Club for the UMHB men’s and women’s golf teams. The practice facility, which features four par-4 holes, five par-3 holes, and additional shortgame practice areas, is now open. The clubhouse should be complete by the summer of 2025.

UMHB competes in 16 sports in the American Southwest Conference of NCAA Division III. The Cru has won over 65 conference championships since beginning intercollegiate athletics in 1979.

To learn more, go to www.umhb.edu.

HEALTH CARE

AdventHealth cares for patients across Central Texas AdventHealth Central Texas, located on Clear Creek Road in Killeen, opened its doors in 1978 as Metroplex Hospital to serve the area’s growing population, including the military community.

The hospital started with only 10 physicians on staff. Today, AdventHealth Central Texas has more than 300 physicians in more than 40 specialties.

With its other facilities, the faithbased, nonprofit organization employs about 1,200 area residents and cares for more than 110,000 patients each year.

AdventHealth Central Texas is one of 50 facilities within the AdventHealth system headquartered in Altamonte Springs, Florida, and spans 10 states.

AdventHealth’s more than 80,000 employees provide compassionate care and maintain a tradition of wholeperson health by caring for a patient’s physical, emotional and spiritual needs.

In 2008, AdventHealth Central Texas forged a partnership with Baylor Scott & White Health that continues to grow and flourish. This partnership enables Baylor Scott & White Health specialists to serve Killeen-area residents at AdventHealth, offering the convenience of whole person care close to home.

ADVENTHEALTH ROLLINS BROOK

AdventHealth Rollins Brook is a 25bed critical access hospital in Lampasas.

It offers many services, including a 24hour emergency center, a state-of-the-art laboratory, medical and surgical rooms, a swing bed program for extended stays for physical therapy, antibiotic therapy and wound care. CT, digital mammography, cardiopulmonary services with EKG and stress testing, sleep disorder center and bone density testing. Cardiology, echocardiograms, orthopedics, podiatry, gastroenterology and urology. General surgery and advanced wound care are also available.

CENTER FOR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

The AdventHealth Behavioral Health Center is the area’s only full-service behavioral health center for children, adolescents, adults and seniors. The 60bed facility offers numerous treatment programs, including inpatient, partial hospitalization and outpatient options.

AdventHealth staff are ready for a flu shot clinic.

The center is a designated Killeen ISD campus, giving it the ability to meet the educational needs of children and adolescent patients while in an inpatient or partial hospitalization care. On the campus of AdventHealth Behavioral Health Center is also AdventHealth Medical Group Psychiatry and Psychology Integrated Health Outpatient Clinic, serving the needs of the community in an outpatient setting.

ADDITIONAL OPERATIONS

AdventHealth Family Medicine Rural Clinic in Copperas Cove and Lampasas: With 9 providers on staff, the clinics provide whole-person primary care for Central Texas. Both locations offer the convenience of (limited) Saturday morning walk-ins from 9 a.m. to noon.

AdventHealth PCP+ in Harker Heights: AdventHealth Medical Group Family Medicine at Harker Heights is located at 3035 Stillhouse Lake Road, Harker Heights, TX 76548. Call 254-519-8922. It’s open Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday 8 a.m. to noon; closed on Saturday and Sunday.

AdventHealth Heart and Vascular Center: Staffed by highly trained technologists and diagnostic and interventional cardiologists, along with interventional radiologists, the center offers 24/7 cardiac and vascular services.

AdventHealth Medical Group: With locations across Central Texas, the AdventHealth Medical Group provides the health care services you need, when and where you need them. From primary care providers to leading specialists in cardiology, women’s health, general surgery, podiatry and orthopedics, our providers are part of a connected healthcare system.

PT Solutions: As the largest outpa-

tient rehabilitation center in Central Texas, PT Solutions, in partnership with AdventHealth, offers state-of-theart treatments for physical therapy in Killeen, Copperas Cove, Harker Heights and Lampasas. Inpatient and outpatient occupational therapy and lymphedema management services are available.

AdventHealth Wound Care: With centers in Killeen, Lampasas and Harker Heights, AdventHealth Wound Care offers comprehensive outpatient wound healing expertise-providing personalized and advanced care for complex and non-healing wounds, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

AdventHealth Imaging Harker Heights: Offering state-of-the-art technology in a comfortable atmosphere, with the MAGNETOMSkyra 3T Wide Bore MRI, the AdventHealth imaging facility in Harker Heights can accommodate most patient needs. The features of the MAGNETOMSkyra, combined with 3 Tesla (T) magnet strength means patients can access an extensive array of imaging options with high-quality images and less acquisition time.

AdventHealth Sleep Center Killeen: It offers outpatient diagnostic testing for sleep/wake disorders.

AdventHealth Surgery Center: It offers the most up-to-date surgical care options for many surgical specialties, including minimally invasive surgery and a comprehensive joint replacement program.

AdventHealth Endoscopy Center: It offers a comforting and caring environment for colonoscopies and other procedures specifically intended to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal disorders.

AdventHealth Sue Mayborn Women’s Center: It offers women one convenient location to receive health care for all of life’s stages. Services at the center include obstetrics and gynecology, labor and delivery, well-woman exams, 3D mammograms and bone density testing.

Community Wellness: Each year, the AdventHealth Wellness Department provides various free services for the community, such as support groups, parenting classes, exercise classes, immunization and flu clinics, and health screenings. For more information, go to AdventHealthCentralTexas.com.

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HEALTH CARE

Baylor Scott & White provides care across region

For more than a century, Central Texans have trusted their care to the team at Baylor Scott & White Health. In Killeen, and across Central and North Texas, Baylor Scott & White offers a range of medical services.

24/7 VIRTUAL CARE WITH MYBSWHEALTH

Baylor Scott & White makes it easier than ever for patients to get the care they need, when they need it. Existing and new patients can receive quality and convenient virtual care from a Baylor Scott & White provider any time, day or night, using MyBSWHealth on a smartphone, computer or tablet.

Create an account by downloading the MyBSWHealth app, texting BETTER to 88408 or going to MyBSWHealth.com.

HOSPITALS

Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Temple, 2401 S. 31st St., Temple, is a multispecialty teaching and research hospital that offers cancer care, transplantation, neurosciences, orthopedics, digestive disease services, surgical services, heart and vascular care and women’s health. It’s the only Level 1 trauma center between Dallas and Austin. This means the team can treat the most severe injuries.

Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Medical Center, 1901 SW H.K. Dodgen Loop, Temple is the only medical center

exclusively for children between Dallas and Austin, and includes a range of subspecialists, as well as on-site surgical and medical teams. It is also the area’s only emergency department with Level II pediatric trauma capabilities and provides the area’s only Level IV neonatal intensive care unit, the highest level recognized by the state.

Baylor Scott & White Continuing Care Hospital – Temple, 546 N. Kegley Road, Temple, delivers comprehensive therapies for patients who are critically ill with complex conditions and require extended hospital stays. This hospital provides acute care with 24-hour access to a team of physicians for short-term treatment following a severe condition or during recovery from surgery. It also has skilled nursing facility.

CLINICS

Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Specialty Clinic – Temple, is next to McLane Children’s Medical Center.

This five-story children’s specialty clinic offers more than 40 specialty services, including general pediatrics and after-hours care, pediatric surgery, cardiology, oncology, gastroenterology, neurology, neurosurgery, pediatric dialysis, pulmonology services and a retail pharmacy. General pediatric services are available by appointment.

Call 254-724-5437.

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Baylor Scott & White Clinic – Killeen, 3801 Scott &White Drive, Killeen, offers family medicine, women’s health, psychology, endocrinology, rheumatology, adolescent medicine, chronic care, acute care for minor injuries, allergy care, and preventive care that includes immunizations. The team also offers general pediatrics, as well as pediatric specialties including cardiology, hematology/ oncology, pulmonology, nephrology and gastroenterology. Radiology and laboratory services are available at this location. Clinic services are available by appointment by calling 254-680-1100.

Weekend clinic hours are available for pediatric patients. Call 254-724-5437.

Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Clinic – Killeen, 3801 Scott & White Drive, Killeen, offers general pediatrics, including pediatric well-child care, immunizations, mental health services, and care coordination for chronic conditions. Pediatric specialties including cardiology, hematology/ oncology, pulmonology, nephrology, and gastroenterology are also available. Call 254-724-5437 for appointments.

Baylor Scott & White Clinic – Killeen Harker Heights, 5702 E. Central Texas Expressway, offers primary care family medicine, pediatrics, women’s health (OB-GYN), as well as X-ray and laboratory services. Call 254-680-7350.

HEALTH CARE Belton ISD students learn how to take blood pressure using a cuff as a Baylor Scott & White instructor explains why monitoring blood pressure is important.

Baylor Scott & White Specialty Clinic – Harker Heights, 907 Mountain Lion Circle, offers dermatology, obstetrics, and gynecology care, robotic laparoscopic surgery, and treatment for dermatologic conditions. Call 254-9537750.

Baylor Scott & White Clinic – Killeen West, 4501 Clear Creek Road, offers primary care, family medicine, pediatrics, women’s health (OB-GYN), as well as laboratory services. Call 254501-6400.

Baylor Scott & White Specialty Clinic – Killeen Hemingway, 2405 S. Clear Creek Road, Killeen, is home to specialties with adult services for pain management, cardiology, vascular surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, bariatric surgery, women’s health, orthopedics, podiatry, radiology and ear, nose and throat. The team also offers general pediatric services.

Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Clinic – Killeen Hemingway, 2405 S. Clear Creek Road, Killeen, offers general pediatric services, including pediatric neonatologists and neonatal nurse practitioners who work nearby at the nursery in AdventHealth Central Texas.

Clinic services are available by appointment. Call 254-724-5437.

Baylor Scott & White Cancer Center – Killeen is in the Ledger-Smith Professional Building at 2207 S. Clear Creek Road, Suite 101, on the AdventHealth Central Texas campus.

The center provides chemotherapy, radiation therapy, anticoagulation, and other professional services for patients.

Call 254-200-3200.

Baylor Scott & White Dialysis Center – Killeen, 3701 Scott & White Drive, Killeen, offers nephrology services including advanced dialysis, kidney function monitoring, pre-end stage renal disease education, outpatient hemodialysis. Call 254-680-1371.

Baylor Scott & White Dialysis Center – Killeen West, 2201 S. W.S. Young Drive, Suite 101B Killeen, offers advanced dialysis, kidney function monitoring, pre-end stage renal disease education, outpatient hemodialysis. Call 254-5016467.

Baylor Scott & White Specialty Clinic – Harker Heights at 326 Morgan St. Suite C, provides outpatient eye care. With a full-time, board-certified optometrist, it offers comprehensive eye exams for ages 8 and over, and an optical shop with the latest eyewear styles. Call 254953-7651.

Baylor Scott & White Clinic-Copperas Cove, 239 W. U.S. Highway 190, Copperas Cove, offers primary care, family medicine including the care of infants and children, women’s health (OBGYN), behavioral health, social work, as well as X-ray and laboratory services.

Call 254-542-9000.

Baylor Scott & White Clinic–Salado, 3525 Farm-to-Market 2484, offers primary care, pediatric care, cancer screening, chronic disease management, women’s health, and lab services. A pharmacy is in the same building. Call 254-947-7500.

Baylor Scott & White Specialty Clinic – Salado, 213 Mill Creek Drive, Suite 190, opened in 2023 and offers internal medicine, dermatology and OB-GYN. Call 254-947-7900.

Greater Killeen area offers substance abuse treatment services for those seeking help Substance abuse treatment and recovery services are available to Killeen area residents, including residential and outpatient programs for drugs and alcohol.

Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings are held daily across Central Texas.

Go to sober.com to find times and locations.

Bluebonnet Trails Community Services, 1009 N. Georgetown St. in Round Rock, through a state program, services a 30-county Central Texas region that includes Bell, Coryell, Lampasas, and Williamson counties.

The main line is 844-309-6385 and the crisis hotline is 800-841-1255.

If you are in the Killeen area, call 800-888-4036.

Scott & White Mental Health Center, 2401 S. 31st St. in Temple, offers outpatient sessions that vary in length depending on the provider and a patient’s needs.

Individual and group therapy are combined with seminars/ presentations, therapeutic recreation, and 12-Step participation.

A program for seniors is available. Call 254-724-2585.

Cedar Crest Hospital, 3500 S. Interstate Highway 35 in Belton, offers inpatient and outpatient alcohol and drug abuse treatment programs for children, teens and adults.

Call 254-613-9871.

Christian Farms Treehouse, 3804 Riverside Trail in Temple, offers a Christian approach to treatment.

It offers 30-, 60- and 90-day programs, and is funded by the State of Texas.

Call 254-933-9400.

Alcohol abuse hotlines: Call 254-813-3313 in Copperas Cove and 254-213-2529 in Harker Heights.

Go to dshs.texas.gov/sa-search/ for additional substance abuse recovery resources.

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HEALTH CARE

Darnall serves nearly 150,000 military beneficiaries

The Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center serves nearly 150,000 beneficiaries and includes the main hospital on Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood); seven clinics — Family Medicine Residency Clinic, Russell Collier Health Clinic, Thomas Moore Health Clinic, Bennett Health Clinic, Monroe Health Clinic, Troop Medical Clinic 12 (Aviation), Troop Medical Clinic 14; and four medical homes in the surrounding communities — Copperas Cove, Harker Heights, Killeen, and West Killeen.

MAIN MEDICAL CENTER INFORMATION

Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, is the premiere Medical Treatment Facility in the Central Texas Region.

Located at 590 Medical Center Road, Fort Cavazos, the hospital system consists of the main hospital with primary care and emergency services, inpatient medical and behavioral health services, and its seven Community-Based and Soldier Centered Medical Homes. On an average, the hospital sees 3,700 daily visitors, which equate to roughly 1 million encounters per year, including filling some 1.2 million prescriptions at its 13 pharmacies.

Darnall information: 254-288-8000 Patient appointments: 254-288-8888 Pharmacy Call Center: 254-288-8800 Website: tricare.mil Instagram: instagram.com/crdamc/ Facebook: facebook.com/CRDAMC

RECOGNIZED CARE

The Leapfrog Group, an independent, nationwide nonprofit that seeks to improve the safety and quality of U.S. health care, awarded the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center an ‘A’ grade for its commitment to providing quality and safe care in May 2024.

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only hospital ratings program focused exclusively on preventable medical errors, infections, and injuries.

It is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public.

COMMUNITY MEDICAL HOMES

• The Killeen Medical Home is at 3404 Kaydence Court, off Elms Road near Stan Schlueter Loop in Killeen.

Sgt. 1st Class Jordan Grandison, a pharmacy technician, fills prescriptions at the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center main hospital pharmacy. | U.S. Army photo

• The West Killeen Medical Home is located at 5200 Bunny Trail.

• The Harker Heights Medical Home is located in the Market Heights shopping center at 201 E. Central Texas Expressway, Suite 200 in Harker Heights.

• The Copperas Cove Medical Home (Temporarily Closed) Clinic is located at 458 Town Square on West Business Highway 190, in Copperas Cove.

• Russell Collier Health Clinic is at 2515 S. Clarke Rd., Bldg. 94043 on Fort Cavazos.

• Thomas Moore Health Clinic is at 58th St. and 761st Tank Battalion Ave., Bldg. 2245 on Fort Cavazos.

• Bennett Health Clinic is at 1022 E. Legends Way on Fort Cavazos.

• Monroe Health Clinic is located at 1776 W. Legends Way, Bldg. 33003 on Fort Cavazos.

• Family Medicine Residency Clinic is located in the hospital at 590 Medical Center Road on Fort Cavazos.

• Yoakum-Defrenn Army Heliport Medical Home is at 3812 East Murphy Road, Fort Cavazos Army Airfield, Bldg.

7015 on Fort Cavazos.

• Troop Medical Clinic 14 is at 1021 Enfield St. Bldg. 56501 on Fort Cavazos.

OTHER SERVICES AND PROGRAMS

The Fort Cavazos Intrepid Spirit Center

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opened its doors and began patient treatment in 2016, caring for soldiers suffering from traumatic brain injuries, as well as post-traumatic stress and other psychological health conditions.

The $11 million-facility was privately funded through the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund and is one of nine around the country.

The Fort Cavazos Soldier Recovery Unit was activated in 2007. Since its inception, it has served more than 55,000 soldiers in recovery. It provides mission command, primary care, rehabilitation, and case management for soldiers in recovery, ensuring that each receives the appropriate medical care and administrative support, so they can fully return to duty or transition into the civilian community.

The Fort Cavazos American Red Cross is at 36000 Darnall Loop #1039, 254-287-0400.

It serves military members, veterans, and their families.

The Robertson Blood Center is at 2250 W 761st Tank Battalion Ave. on Fort Cavazos. Volunteer donors, willing and able to contribute, are encouraged to visit. Walk-ins are welcome from 8 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For questions regarding blood donations or for more information, call 254-2855808.

HEALTH CARE

Seton Harker Heights sets standard for excellence With quality patient care as a top priority, Seton Medical Center Harker Heights is ready and able to provide for health care needs and manage all types of medical emergencies with outstanding medical expertise.

The 83-bed acute care facility opened in 2012. The hospital’s mission is to be the community’s premier healthcare system, recognized for exceptional patient-centered care, quality services and respect for those we serve.

Seton Harker Heights offers an array of services such as cardiology, a Level IV trauma-designated emergency room, general surgery, orthopedic surgery and total joint replacement, gastroenterology, diagnostic services, wound care and more.

rating reflects quality measures for common conditions that hospitals treat, such as heart attacks and pneumonia.

“Receiving these local and national awards reflects our vision — to be the community’s premier healthcare system, recognized for exceptional patient-centered care, quality services and respect for those we serve,” Swindle said.

CONVENIENCE

WOUND CARE CLOSE TO HOME

Seton Harker Heights opened the Wound Healing Center in August. The center supports an underserved and growing population of people living with chronic wounds while helping to raise awareness for those who are at risk for chronic wounds.

“We’re proud to partner with Healogics to continue our commitment of providing exceptional health care solutions to meet the needs of our community,” said Mandy Shaiffer, Chief Nursing Officer of Seton Harker Heights. “We’re excited to offer many evidence-based treatments for wound care patients from tissues and biologics to technical solutions such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy. We have assembled a very experienced, compassionate and specialty trained staff to serve our patients.”

To learn more about the treatments offered, go to https:// setonharkerheights.net/services/ wound-care/or schedule an appointment with a provider by calling 254-618-1020 or visiting https://wellstonepartners.org/ find-a-provider/results.

AWARD-WINNING QUALITY CARE

Seton Harker Heights is Joint Commission Accredited and is also an Accredited Chest Pain Center and Advanced Primary Stroke Center.

The health system strives to offer the

Seton Medical Center Harker Heights installed a hyperbaric oxygen therapy machine in August.

newest methods and best practices in heart care, receiving the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR 2024 Chest Pain – MI Registry Silver Performance Achievement Award.

This award recognizes Seton Harker Heights’ commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that Seton Harker Heights has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.

Seton Harker Heights was also awarded an ‘A’ grade from the Leapfrog Group’s spring 2024 Hospital Safety Guide. This national distinction was earned for protecting patients from errors, injuries, accidents and infections.

“We are proud to have earned an eighth consecutive ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade,” said Patrick Swindle, CEO of Seton Harker Heights.

The health system also received a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. This

In addition to the exemplary care SMCHH provides, the hospital is affiliated with Wellstone Health Partners, a multi-specialty group that takes pride in caring for patients during each phase of life, including specialties such as family medicine, ear nose and throat, gastroenterology, general surgery, orthopedic care, urology and women’s health and wellness.

Urgent care provides another important access point for patients needing immediate care. Seton Harker Heights continues to partner with Freedom Urgent Care, offering four locations throughout Harker Heights, Killeen and Belton. This collaboration also provides a venue for occupational medicine for on-the-job injuries, vaccinations, physicals, routine medical testing and OSHA-mandated exams for employees working in industrial environments.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

The Seton Harker Heights outpatient therapy program opened in 2016 in partnership with the Armed Services YMCA at the 54,000-square-foot wellness center in Harker Heights. The program offers patients expanded access to therapy services.

The hospital also collaborates with the Greater Killeen Community Clinic by providing financial support to improve the health of at-risk populations in Bell County. GKCC offers patients a chronic care management program to treat diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and asthma/COPD. For more information about SMCHH, go to setonharkerheights.net. To find a physician, go to setonharkerheights.net/ find-a-provider.

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HEALTH CARE

Bell County Public Health District offers services, programs

The motto of the Bell County Public Health District is “promote, prevent and protect.” The organization offers a wide array of services to help people maintain their health.

Amy Yeager with Bell County Public Health goes over her presentation to the Killeen City Council in June.

The community partner requested $345,513 from the city in its 2024-25 budget.

CLINICAL SERVICES

The health district offers well-woman exams (including issuing contraceptive methods), immunizations, travel vaccines, pregnancy testing (to include proof of pregnancy for Medicaid), sexually transmitted disease testing/ treatment and tuberculosis testing/ treatment.

The clinics in Killeen (309 N. Second St.) and Temple (820 N. 31st St.) are open from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Friday. Call 254-526-8371 in Killeen and 254-778-4766 in Temple.

The district’s services are based on family size and income. Services are either walk-in or appointment based, depending on the treatment needed.

WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN PROGRAM

The WIC Program provides the services, support and inspiration for families to eat right, have a healthy pregnancy and breast-feed successfully.

Call for information or to make an appointment at one of the following four sites: Temple: 820 N. 31st Street, 254-7781511; Killeen: 111 Santa Fe Plaza, 254526-2033; Fort Cavazos: Building 36000 Darnall Loop (the second floor of the old Darnall Hospital), 254-532-8680; Copperas Cove: 213 W. Avenue D, 254-547-9571.

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

Environmental Health Division services include routine inspections of food establishments, day-care facilities and foster homes; food safety education, permitting of on-site sewage facilities and investigations of public

health complaints. The Killeen office can be reached at 254-526-3197. Contact food protection at 254-771-2106 or environmental at 254-778-7557 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

PREPAREDNESS DIVISION

Preparedness Division prepares for threats such as infectious disease outbreak, bioterrorism event, chemical spill, contamination of drinking water and natural disasters. Contact preparedness at 254-773-4457 from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. For more information, go to www.bellcountyhealth.org.

Community clinic helps meet health needs of Killeen residents The Greater Killeen Community Clinic is 30 years of providing quality health care services to a vulnerable population. Located in the heart of downtown Killeen at 718 N. Second St., Suite A, the clinic remains a vital asset to the community.

The story behind the clinic began in 1993, after an assessment determined that the needs of social service clients could be better met with more affordable medical care.

The facility inside the Bell County Health Department opened less than a year later in November 1994 as a once-a-week acute care clinic. Since then, it has expanded its services and continues to provide primary medical needs to children and adults who are

underserved, uninsured and who have limited or no access to health care services. The clinic is nonprofit and volunteer based.

It is open Monday through Thursday, and patients are seen by appointment only. Patients are asked to make a contribution to their care based on their income. Waivers are granted on a case-by-case basis. The Acute Care Clinic is on Tuesday and Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Simple conditions such as a rash, ear infections and bladder infections are seen, as are minor injuries such as sprains, strains and simple wounds.

The Chronic Care Clinic is available Monday, Tuesday and Thursday by appointment. This clinic provides

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treatment for patients diagnosed with diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, asthma/COPD and thyroid disease.

It includes a mandatory education component. Patients can receive free medications through enrollment in the Prescription Assistance Program.

The clinic also sees patients through the Bell County Indigent Health Care Program; they see cardiology patients, behavioral health patients and provide counseling services by appointment on Wednesday through Mindset Counseling. Patients seeking services must provide a photo ID, proof of residency and household income for the previous month.

Call 254-618-4211 or go to www.gkcc. me for more information.

BUSINESS

Better Business Bureau a valuable source of information The Better Business Bureau is a valuable resource Central Texas residents can turn to for objective, unbiased information on local businesses and charities. As a nonprofit organization, BBB provides free consumer and business education resources, as well as tips tailored toward promoting ethical business practices and alerts of trending consumer scams.

The BBB serving the Heart of Texas is located in San Antonio at 13750 San Pedro Ave, Ste. 400. Call 844-477-1099 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The BBB provides a variety of services, including a free Speakers’ Bureau for civic organizations and other groups, business reviews, dispute resolution and a scam tracker. For more information about BBB and consumer-related news, follow BBB on Facebook or Twitter @CentralTexasBBB.

Killeen chambers support local businesses The mission of the Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce is to provide vision, leadership and support to business and community leaders to create economic prosperity.

This is accomplished through a variety of programs, including the Killeen Economic Development Corporation, Business Resource Center, Greater Killeen Young Professionals and 14 Forward Foundation.

The chamber’s office at 1 Santa Fe Plaza in Killeen is open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday.

The organization is governed by a board of directors elected from its membership of more than 500. The chamber’s full-time staff specializes in economic development, military relations, public policy, and community and talent development.

The chamber offers a variety of products, services and events throughout the year to benefit member businesses and the community, such as monthly mixers, Chamber Networking and News, Leadercast, Flavors of Central Texas, Leadership Killeen, the annual membership banquet, and informative workshops.

The Greater Killeen Young Professionals offers networking and professional development for young entrepreneurs and professionals. For more information, visit gkyp.org.

In 2017, the chamber launched the Fort Hood Regional Economic Development campaign, an aggressive five-year campaign designed to help grow the region’s economy. It is now organizing

a second five-year campaign. Go to killeenchamber.com/forge_ctx for more information.

The Killeen Economic Development Corporation is housed at the chamber and acts on behalf of the city of Killeen in the promotion and development of commercial, industrial and manufacturing enterprises and to promote and encourage employment and public welfare. KEDC also provides demographic and industry data at killeenedc.com or upon request.

The chamber offers businesses exposure through ribbon-cutting and groundbreaking ceremonies, directory listings, event promotions, advertising and sponsorship options. Go to KilleenChamber.com or call 254-526-9551 for more information.

INNOVATION BLACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Innovation Black Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic, technologydriven organization that fosters a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem for Black- and veteran-owned businesses in the surrounding area.

By implementing innovative financial strategies, facilitating connections between companies and lending institutions, and securing corporate partnerships committed to compliance with Title VI of the 1964 Voting Rights Act, the IBCC stimulates business growth and ensures equitable opportunities, leveraging technology to empower and uplift the community it serves. To learn more, visit the IBCC at 205 E. Avenue D in Killeen, go to www. innovationbcc.org, or call 254-415-9951.

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BUSINESS

Cove chamber and EDC work to promote, grow small businesses CHAMBER & VISITORS BUREAU

The Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau has been a driving force in promoting commerce, economic growth, and tourism since its establishment in 1956. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, the Chamber has played a vital role in creating a thriving business community.

The Chamber unveiled a new mural of the Rabbit Fest Fairgrounds. The design had been kept secret until the unveiling in July. Lina Lapiere coordinated with students at Copperas Cove High School to bring it all together.

Under the leadership of President Beth Galick-Carney and the Board of Directors, the chamber has been able to drive positive change, foster economic development and create a strong commerce and community connection. The chamber also actively promotes tourism. By hosting annual events, such as Rabbit Fest, Krist Kindl Market and various 5k/10k races, they attract visitors who contribute to the local economy. Find more information at copperascove.com.

COPPERAS COVE EDC

The Copperas Cove Economic Development Corporation is dedicated to growth by supporting businesses, entrepreneurs, and the local workforce. It offers free professional business development support for the local community.

From corporate level marketing strategies, to financing and incentives knowledge, to securing new building locations, and training employees, the CCEDC team, led by Executive Director Fred Welch, is here to help companies reach their goals. Call today to schedule a free consultation with the CCEDC’s advisers at 254-547-7874. The office is at 207 S. Third St. Suite 200, Copperas Cove. Visit the website at www.coveedc.com.

Monica Hall and her husband, Redd Hall, learn to mix a lemondrop drink during a mixology class at the Harker Heights Food, Wine and Brew Festival in September.

Heights chamber promotes partnerships Welcome to the “Bright Star” of Central Texas.

Harker Heights has a lot to offer residents and visitors looking for a unique authentic Texas experience.

The Harker Heights Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center offers a variety of tourism events throughout the year.

Events include the Harker Heights Music Series, Frosted Mug 5K & Kids Fun Run, festivals, and sporting events.

The city’s location near Fort Cavazos and other nearby attractions also makes it a great destination for visitors looking to explore the Central Texas region. Go to www.discoverharkerheights.com to learn more about the history of Harker Heights, events, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

The Harker Heights Chamber of Commerce is a vital part of the ongoing growth in Bell County, promoting and supporting the area’s diverse range of businesses and industries.

Harker Heights has a strong economy, with a mix of retail, hospitality, health care, and professional services that provide employment and business opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Overall, Harker Heights has a

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positive economic impact on Bell County, contributing to job creation, tax revenue generation, and economic growth. The city’s diverse range of businesses and industries, coupled with its strategic location near major highways and attractions, makes it an attractive destination for businesses and individuals looking to establish themselves in the area.

The Harker Heights Chamber of Commerce is diligently fulfilling its mission as the advocate for business excellence in Bell County. It brings value to its members through the tourism division, education, government relations, community resources, business and professional development, economic development, and member services.

With more than 500 members, the chamber is proud to partner in the area’s economic success, ensuring that Harker Heights is the foremost location for economic development and business prosperity. Through its various programs and initiatives, the chamber helps businesses grow and thrive while contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

To learn more, go to www.hhchamber. com.

BUSINESS

Workforce Solutions works to connect people to jobs Workforce Solutions of Central Texas offers services to job-seekers, employers, veterans, youth and parents in need of childcare. They partner with community nonprofits, city and county offices, chambers of commerce, businesses, colleges and universities of the region to facilitate economic success in Bell, Coryell, Hamilton, Lampasas, Milam, San Saba and Mills counties.

FOR INDIVIDUALS

With an in-depth understanding of the local job market and established relationships with local employers, educational institutions and qualified job search support vendors, WSCT provides individuals with the resources, intelligence and tools needed to succeed.

It offers career planning guidance, tips and advice for improving a job search, training and education opportunities and financial support. Workintexas.com offers information on financial aid for training as well as assistance to help one look for or go to work.

A representative of the Killeen Police Department talks to job seekers at the Red, White & Blue Career Festival in Killeen. Workforce Solutions helps job-seekers find careers to match their skills.

CAREER CENTERS

Free employment assistance is available at any of four career service centers in the area. Each location is staffed with career counselors who work with job seekers to assess their skills, interests and abilities and to advise them on jobs, in-demand career opportunities and potential training options. Recruiting events and various workshops are also held at select locations throughout the year. Career centers also provide free public access

to computers with internet, telephones and fax machines. Staff members are available to assist job seekers with building a resume, general career exploration and job searching. Offices are located in Lampasas, Killeen, Temple and Rockdale. Workforce Solutions of Central Texas is governed by a board of 27 members, each representing a spectrum of business, education and community interests. Go to https://workforcesolutionsctx. com/ or call 254-200-2021 for more information.

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COMMUNITY SERVICES

Local food banks support hundreds of families

KILLEEN FOOD CARE CENTER

The Killeen Food Care Center serves more than 84,000 clients and distributes more than 2.4 million pounds of food a month.

It is operated by Executive Director Raymond Cockrell. Donations of $1 are able to provide seven meals for their clients, and they can be made on the website or by check to P.O. Box 1656, Killeen, TX, 76540-1656.

No requirements have to be met to receive food from the center at 210 N. 16th St. in Killeen. Call 254-554-3400 or go to www.foodcare.org.

Clients may visit the food pantry once per month.

SOUTHSIDE FOOD PANTRY

Southside Food Pantry is at 1505 Trimmier Road in Killeen. Applications are required, but due to COVID-19 response application restrictions have been significantly eased.

The Southside Food Pantry is open from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday and Saturday.

Call 254-526-3041 or go to www. killeenchurch.org.

REFUGE MOBILE FOOD PANTRY

The Refuge Mobile Food Pantry typically serves more than 500 families per month. It is a ministry of the Christian House of Prayer in Killeen.

Food distribution events are conducted on the third Saturday of every month from 9 to 11 a.m. Go to https://www. facebook.com/refugemobile for information on the location of each month’s event.

Volunteering soldiers as well as those from the Central Texas Food Bank load groceries into vehicles for people attending the Aug. 1 drive-thru food pantry at Phantom Warrior Stadium. The event is slated to become a recurring, official event on the first Thursday of each month at Fort Cavazos.

Help is limited to those in the Copperas Cove area. It operates at 507 N. Fifth St. For more information, go to https://www.fbccove.net/baptistbenevolence or call 254-542-6780.

COPPERAS COVE LITTLE HOUSE

Greater Christ Gospel, 200 S. Gray St. in Killeen, operates a food pantry from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday. Call 254-4661520.

The Copperas Cove Little House is operated by the Church of Christ and offers clothing items for all ages, household goods and emergency food.

It is at 305 W. Avenue D, Copperas Cove and is usually open to the public on the second and fourth Thursday and first and third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon. Go to https://www. facebook.com/copperascovelittlehouse.

BAPTIST BENEVOLENCE MINISTRY

MY BROTHER’S HOUSE FOOD PANTRY

GREATER CHRIST GOSPEL

Baptist Benevolence Ministry is a collection of five Copperas Cove Baptist churches through which families can get food, clothing and financial assistance.

It is open every weekday from 9 a.m. to noon.

My Brother’s House Food Pantry is operated by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Holy Family Catholic Church.

It is open every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon.

Assistance is limited to residents of

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Copperas Cove and Kempner. Applicants must have proof of residence and ID. It is at 107 Lyons St. in Copperas Cove.

Call 254-547-5206 to volunteer or go to https://hf-cc.org/st-vincent-de-paulsvdp.

HOUSE OF MERCY

House of Mercy, 627 E. Veterans Memorial Blvd., in Harker Heights, has a food pantry open from 8 to 11 a.m. every Monday for people who need food to come by and pick something up. Food is eligible once a month and bags are pre-packaged.

For more information, go to https:// www.ecpowerhouse.org/ministry/ outreach/food-pantry.

NOLANVILLE FOOD PANTRY

Nolanville Food Pantry is operated through the Central Texas Food Bank. It is at 300 W. Ave. I It is open every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 2 to 6 p.m.

Call 254-698-6820.

Central Texas shelters offer assistance

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Many families are suffering, whether it be due to homelessness, violence or some other factor, and there are several places in Central Texas that offer assistance.

FAMILIES IN CRISIS

Families In Crisis, Inc. is a nonprofit United Way organization that houses, supports and empowers people experiencing family violence, sexual violence and homelessness in Bell, Coryell and Hamilton counties, including Fort Cavazos.

Formed in 1980 and located at 1305 E. Rancier Ave., it has evolved into a widely recognized community partner offering services to residents affected by family violence, sexual assault, homelessness and housing assistance.

The Families in Crisis domestic violence shelters offer emergency safe shelter to survivors at a 65-bed facility in Killeen and a 16-bed facility in Temple.

Outreach services are available to family violence survivors who are not seeking shelter, or who have already left one of the agency’s shelters.

Services to family violence survivors also include crisis intervention and case management, safety planning, hospital accompaniment, life skills classes, provision of food and necessary items, referrals and transitional housing assistance. Families in Crisis has expanded services over the years to include other underserved populations and unmet community needs.

It also offers rental assistance and supportive services to very low income veterans and their families, youth aging out of foster care, and the general homeless population.

FRIENDS IN CRISIS

For homeless residents, Families in Crisis operates Friends in Crisis, 412 E. Sprott St., Killeen. The 78-bed facility has room for 54 men and 24 women/ families. Clients can check in at 3 p.m. and check out is 7 a.m. The shelter has laundry and shower facilities. It also provides an evening meal every night.

In 2023, the Killeen domestic violence shelter averaged 48.6 people per night.

Temple averaged 13 people per night,

Suzanne Armour, executive director of Families in Crisis, gives a presentation about the Friends in Crisis shelter to the Killeen City Council.

and the homeless shelter averaged 60.5 people per night. In 2023, Families in Crisis provided 3,888 individuals in 1,341 households with transitional housing assistance, and provided rental assistance and supportive services to 1,215 individuals in 459 households through its veterans’ housing assistance program.

The nonprofit’s 24-hour family violence/sexual assault hotline can be reached at 1-888-799-SAFE. For more information, call 254-634-1184 in Killeen, 254-773-7765 in Temple, or go to www. familiesincrisis.net.

COVE HOUSE

For more than 29 years, the Cove House Emergency Homeless Shelter Inc., at 108 E. Halstead Ave. in Copperas Cove, has provided shelter and support for homeless residents in Coryell, Bell and Lampasas counties.

Residents wishing to stay at the temporary emergency shelter must meet its requirements and will be put on the schedule. The shelter is equipped with one men’s and one women’s house, as well as two family homes. Shelter office hours are from 8 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday.

The shelter accepts baby supplies, household goods, food items and financial donations. Go to www. covehouse.org or call 254-547-4673.

In 2013, Cove House opened a free clinic. The free clinic is by appointment only and is in the Lovett Ledger Medical Plaza at 806 E. Avenue D, Suite H, in Copperas Cove. Residents can email clinicappointments@covehouse.org to schedule an appointment.

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COMMUNITY SERVICES

Adoption centers help animals find permanent homes

KILLEEN AND FORT CAVAZOS

Killeen Animal Services handles all animal-related issues for the City of Killeen including barkingdog complaints, stray or dangerous animals, and neglect cases. Animal Control Officers respond to calls for service from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily. Concerns and complaints can be called in at 254-526-4455 or sent through email at animalcontrol@killeentexas.gov.

Animal Control Officers will also respond to after-hours dispatches in emergency situations. The division operates the Killeen Animal Shelter at 3118 Commerce Drive and the Killeen Animal Center at 3518 E. Rancier Ave. The shelter campus houses stray animals and is open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All animals are microchipped and registered prior to leaving the facility. The shelter also offers microchipping services to publicly owned pets for $15.

The Killeen Animal Center houses adoptable animals and is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday from noon until 6 p.m. Adoption fees range from $25-$70.

Killeen Animal Services has contracted with Fort Cavazos to perform nuisance animal removal, stray impoundment, redemption, and adoption services throughout the military base. The Fort Cavazos Stray Animal and Adoption Facility is at 4902

current pets available for adoption.

For animal-related emergencies after normal business hours or holidays, call the Harker Heights Police Department at 254-953-5400.

COPPERAS COVE

Families can find furry friends at area shelters.

Engineer Drive on the Fort Cavazos Main Cantonment. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Call 254-287-4675.

For more information on adoptable pets, services, regulations and fees, go to killeentexas.gov/233/Animal-Services.

HARKER HEIGHTS

Harker Heights Pet Adoption Center is at 403 Indian Trail. Adoption hours are 1 to 4 p.m. Monday, 1 to 7 p.m. TuesdayFriday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. The adoption center also has microchipping services for $15. Call 254-953-5472.

Check out the city’s website for

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The Animal Control Facility is at 1601 N. First St. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Call 254-547-5584.

Currently under construction, a new facility in the vicinity of Fire Station No. 2 at 2401 Farm-to-Market 1113 is anticipated to be completed by early 2025. It will increase the capacity of the shelter from 46 dogs and 12 cats to 66 dogs and 40 cats. After-hours calls are routed to the police department at 254547-8222.

BELL COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER

The Bell County Animal Shelter, a joint effort between the county and city of Belton, is at 2509 S. Loop 121, Belton.

It is open Monday through Saturday: 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The adoption fee for sterilized cats and dogs is $60. Call 254-933-6780.

TEMPLE ANIMAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT

The Temple Animal Services Department is at 620 Mama Dog Circle, Temple. It is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Call 254-298-5732.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Salvation Army helps families in need The Salvation Army is an international movement and is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in his name without discrimination.

Operations in Killeen are coordinated out of the organization’s Temple office, which houses the Salvation Army of Bell County.

The social services office offers help to area residents going through difficult times, providing food, clothing, rent and utilities assistance (when funding is available), back-to-school and Christmas assistance.

Worship services are at The Salvation Army in Temple, 419 W. Avenue G., with morning worship at 11 a.m.

Donations help provide these services and more for those in need.

The Salvation Army also assists during disasters through its Emergency and Disaster Services mobile feeding vehicle.

Volunteers hand out Thanksgiving sacks to members of the Killeen community last year.

Volunteers are needed for its annual Angel Tree Program, Red Kettle fundraising at Christmas, and at its food pantry and clothing closet year-round.

For more information, call 254-7749996.

Volunteers are needed to help the Red Cross respond to emergencies.

Red Cross ready to respond to emergencies With offices in Waco and Austin, the Red Cross is able to serve victims of any type of disaster. The Heart of Texas Area Chapter provides services to 17 Texas counties, including Bell, Coryell and Lampasas, as well as Fort Cavazos. Volunteers of all ages, skills and backgrounds are always needed. The Red Cross also provides training in CPR, first aid, water safety and baby-sitting.

The organization’s Home Fire Campaign is dedicated to ending the loss of lives from home fires by installing free smoke alarms.

The Red Cross provides about 40% of the blood supply in the U.S. Sign up to donate at www.redcrossblood.org.

Access services, information and volunteer opportunities at www.redcross.org or call the local Red Cross at 254-523-4985. The Fort Cavazos office is at 36000 Darnall Loop #1039 and is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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COMMUNITY SERVICES

United Way supports variety of local organizations

The mission of the local United Way is to increase the organized capacity of the community to address the health and human service needs in Central Texas.

United Way of the Greater TriCounty Area assists a wide range of local organizations, from substance abuse centers to special-needs child care facilities. Annual campaigns raise money and awareness.

Executive Director Aaron Montemayor said the organization uses the funds it receives to help provide human service programs to area residents in a timely manner.

“Most processes are six months to a year to apply for funding,” Montemayor said. “We can respond, based on the need, very quickly.”

The United Way supports many charitable programs through its member agencies. Programs align with the organization’s four areas of focus — basic needs, education, financial independence and health.

The office is at 208 W. Avenue A, Killeen. It can be reached at 254-634-0660 or go to www.unitedwaygtca.org.

The United Way supports these local organizations: BRING EVERYONE IN THE ZONE: The organization provides peer support, resources and basic needs to our service members, veterans, and dependents to help improve their quality of life.

Contact: 254-681-9112, www.bringeveryoneinthezone.org CENTRAL TEXAS 4C: This organization provides high quality, comprehensive child development programs for low-income children up to age 5 and their families. Services include health, disabilities, education, nutrition, literacy, mental health, and other family services. Contact: 254-778-0489, www.ct4c.org CENTRAL TEXAS YOUTH SERVICES BUREAU: The Youth Services Bureau provides the following no cost services to people up to 21 years of age: emergency shelter, maternity group home, transitional/independent living programs and street outreach. Hotline 1-800-421-8336.

Contact: 254-939-3466, www.centraltexasyouthservices.org CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER OF CENTRAL TEXAS: The center provides

The Palo Alto Middle School Cheer Team performed at the United Way of the Greater Tri-County Area annual celebration luncheon in March.

collaborative, investigative and therapeutic services to victims of child abuse in order to lessen trauma, heal and enhance their quality of life. Contact: 254-939-2946, www.cacct.com CASA OF BELL AND CORYELL COUNTIES: CASA screens, trains and supervises community volunteers as the leading voice for safe, permanent and nurturing homes for abused and neglected children in the court system. Contact: 254-774-1881, www.casabellcoryell.org COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS OF GREATER CENTRAL TEXAS: Communities in Schools closely monitors academics, behavior and attendance of at-risk youth with the goal of keeping kids in school until they graduate, improving their chances for success in life. Contact: 254-554-2132, www.cis-tx.org COVE HOUSE EMERGENCY HOMELESS SHELTER: Provides free emergency shelter for homeless individuals and families. They also provide a free clinic for the community. Contact: 254-547-4673, www.covehouse.org FAMILIES IN CRISIS: Provides safe shelter, crisis intervention, and outreach services for victims of family violence and sexual assault. It is free and confidential.

Call the 24-hour hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

Contact: 254-634-1184, www.familiesincrisis.net FOOD CARE CENTER: Provides supplemental assistance with food, clothing, and household items for low-to-moder-

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ate income families, both civilian and military. Contact: 254-554-3400, www. foodcare.org HABITAT FOR HUMANITY: This national Christian Housing Ministry is dedicated to eliminating poverty by building houses (built by volunteers) that are sold to low-income families at 0% interest.

Contact: 254-680-4007, www.fhahfh.org GIRL SCOUTS OF CENTRAL TEXAS: Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. Contact: 800-7330011, www.gsctx.org GREATER KILLEEN COMMUNITY CLINIC: The clinic provides medical treatment, medications and specialty referral to low income, uninsured children and adults. Limited dental and mental health services, case management and health promotion programs are available. Contact: 254-618-4211, www.gkfclinic.org HILL COUNTRY COMMUNITY ACTION ASSOCIATION: The Senior Nutrition Program provides congregate and home delivered meals to eligible elderly and disabled participants five days a week, Monday through Friday. Contact: 254699-8888, www.hccaa.com THE REFUGE CORPORATION: The Refuge helps to preserve family and community by providing a shelter for women and children, and health education programs in Central Texas.

Contact: 254-547-6753, www.refugecorporation.org

LULAC, NAACP support Black and Latino communities in Central Texas

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Three organizations in Killeen are always at work in Central Texas improving Black and Latin-American communities, including the Killeen branch of the NAACP and two local branches of the League of United Latin American Citizens. During election season, they stay even busier hosting town halls and voter registration drives.

NAACP KILLEEN BRANCH #6189

Since being established in 1970, the Killeen branch of the NAACP has been working in the community and now it has one more feather in its cap after bringing home a prestigious award at its national convention just last year. The branch won 1st Place for the Thalheimer Award for the Publication Award Category. The Thalheimer Award is the NAACP’s top award given to Units for outstanding achievements.

Members have not had time to rest, as outreach efforts include education, economic development, voter registration and combating health disparities in the Black and brown communities.

The Killeen branch meets on the third Monday of every month at Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church at 4201 Zephyr Road, at 6:15 p.m. Meetings are open to the public.

The organization holds a Freedom Fund Banquet every year to raise money for its local outreach efforts.

To learn more about the NAACP, call 254-286-9211 or go to naacpkilleen.com.

LULAC HERENCIA COUNCIL 4297

The mission of the Herencia Council is to inspire, nurture, and support the educational attainment of members of the Hispanic community and elevate those in need.

Every year, the organization hosts the “My Heritage, My Legacy Gala.” During election seasons, LULAC is a frequent sponsor of elections forums and meetand-greets.

Meetings are held at the Harker Heights Recreation Center on the second Monday of the month, from 6 to 8 p.m.

The Killeen NAACP held a voter registration drive on Oct. 7 to get people ready to vote Nov. 5.

KILLEEN-FORT HOOD LULAC COUNCIL 4535

The oldest LULAC Council in Bell County is continuing to provide scholarships and classes in citizenship and ESL. The council hands out $20,000 in scholarships each year to graduating seniors from Killeen and Copperas Cove school districts, as well as for current students at Central Texas College and Texas A&M University-Central Texas, so students should see their counselors for more information. The organization also provides outreach into the community, often partnering with other organizations to host events. One of the annual highlights is a banquet where the Firefighter and Police Officer of the Year are recognized.

The council was founded in 1986 by Julia and Raul Villaronga, who also created the LULAC Foundation in order to present hundreds of scholarships and tuition programs to Latino members of the community.

For more information on scholarships, banquets, tickets or membership, call 1-800-KILLEEN or go to the council’s Facebook page.

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COMMUNITY SERVICES

Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts keeps children active, engaged

Parents and kids don’t see eye-toeye on everything; but all agree that it’s important to be active, engaged and, most of all, having fun. Two organizations in Central Texas that provide all that and more, while in a safe environment: Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.

GIRL SCOUTS

The mission of the Girl Scouts is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, and it is open to girls in kindergarten through 12th grade. Girls experience learning opportunities in all areas, such as STEM, outdoors activities and life skills and entrepreneurship.

In 2022, Girl Scouts of Central Texas connected more than 12,500 girls and 9,800 adult volunteers across 46 counties, including Bell and Coryell.

“Girl Scouts across central Texas earned 32,399 badges and journeys during our 2022 membership year, gaining experience and hands-on practice with automotive technology, entrepreneurship, camping, hiking, taking action in the community and more,” according to the Girl Scouts of Central Texas.

The Killeen Service Center is at 2909

Girl Scout Daisy Rebekah Owen of Troop 3345 smiles in excitement while getting makeup applied during a Zombie Survival badge event.

Lake Road. Call 800-733-0011 or visit the website: www.gsctx.org.

BOY SCOUTS

Local boys and girls in kindergarten through age 20 get to experience the many benefits of the diverse programs offered by the Leon Valley District, Longhorn Council of the Boy Scouts.

Their Family Scouting program includes girls in grades K-5 who want the opportunity to join Cub Scouts. The district includes Fort Hood, Killeen, Harker Heights and Copperas Cove.

Gatesville, Belton, Temple and Salado

are a part of the Chisholm Trail District.

The Leon Valley District’s programs achieve the Boy Scout objectives of developing character, citizenship and personal fitness.

Some of the programs include a STEM Center, space simulators, reptile shows, aquatic programs and summer camps, plus many more. Go to www. beascout.org or call 817-231-8500 for more information.

Another popular program within Scouting is Venturing, which is a youthled, co-ed program available for ages 14 through 20. This program provides hobbies that teach leadership skills, sports, high adventure and gives youth the opportunity to teach and mentor each other.

The Boy Scouts offers an “Exploring” program that allows participants to explore a variety of career fields, from the arts and humanities to aviation, business and health care and more.

The Killeen Police Department offers an “Exploring” program for youth ages 14 to 21. Commander Tony Lourence is in charge of the program. Email him at alourence@killeentexas.gov or call or call 254-501-8922 for more information.

Boys & Girls Clubs provide services for Central Texas youth The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Texas spans seven communities and serves about 21,000 youth. Earlier this year, it completed Phase 2 of the multimillion-dollar expansion of the McLaurin-Boyd Clubhouse in downtown Killeen. Located at 703 N. Eighth St., it includes a multi-use recreation and youth development center. Within the McLaurin-Boyd Clubhouse are a variety of other organizations including Skinner College and Career Center, Moody Foundation Counseling Center by Strong Families Strong Soldiers, and the expanded McLaurinBoyd Family Gymnasium.

The Subhani Family Clubhouse is another project in progress. It will be located at 200 Nola Ruth Blvd. in

Harker Heights.

Members enjoy a variety of programs and activities geared toward academic success, building good character and citizenship, and leading healthy lifestyles. Programs are provided by professionally-trained staff. Learn more at bgctx.org.

McLAURIN-BOYD FAMILY CLUBHOUSE: The Clubhouse, for ages 6-12, is in downtown Killeen. The center includes a state-of-the-art clubhouse, the administrative headquarters for BGCTX, a new gymnasium, College & Career Center for teens, ESL classes, a police substation and a Family Counseling & Therapy Center. Call 254-699-5808.

NOLANVILLE UNIT (AGES 6-12) 400

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Gold Star Avenue in Nolanville: Call 254-275-8166.

WOODY HALL UNIT (AGES 7-12) 5100 Trimmier Road in Killeen: Call 254-6340308.

COPPERAS COVE (AGES 6-12) 206 Laura Street in Copperas Cove: Call 254-547-5578.

GATESVILLE (AGES 6-18) 2533 E. Main St. in Gatesville: Call 254-865-8347.

LAMPASAS (AGES 6-18) 107 N. Main St. in Lampasas: Call 512-564-1669.

SCHOOL-BASED CLUB SITES: Students in Nolanville, Harker Heights and Killeen may be eligible to participate in one of the club sites at 17 campuses.

Annual membership is $20, and free for military-connected youth. Call 254699-5808.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Area senior centers offer exercise classes, low-cost meals and more Fun-loving senior citizens have plenty of options to keep them busy when the grandkids aren’t around.

KILLEEN

The Senior Center at Lions Club Park, 1700-B E. Stan Schlueter Loop, is open weekdays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday through Friday. Call 254-5016399. Membership is free, regardless of residency, to a person 55 years or older. A person under 55 may join if their spouse is 55 and a member.

There are many fun and engaging activities, including daily exercise classes along with state-of-the-art exercise equipment in the Gary Purser Jr. Fitness Room, and classes that range from arts and crafts to computer skills.

Seniors can also enjoy playing a variety of board games and billiards, pickle ball, and day trips. During the year, the center hosts seasonal parties and celebrations.

In a few years, Killeen will have a second place for seniors to hang out. The Bob Gilmore Center on East Veterans Memorial Boulevard closed in 2019, and was to be renovated but “significant structural deficiencies” were discovered that led it to be razed in 2022.

The new senior center, which broke ground in 2023, will include a large billiard room, banquet facilities, senior lunch program, ceramics and card rooms, according to a city news release.

Seniors will also have access to the gym, weight room and aerobics room, as well as meeting rooms. There will also be pickleball courts and a dining courtyard outside. The City Council approved HCS Inc. as the contractor in May 2023 at a cost of $7.4 million for the project.

COPPERAS COVE

Copperas Cove’s Senior Activity Center now is operated by a nonprofit based in San Saba, the Hill Country Community Action Association, but its location remains the same.

The city’s senior center is hopping with classes in rock painting and other crafts, parties and get-togethers

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The Killeen G-Force Rebels granny basketball team plays the Harker Heights Old Glories.

and meetings. It provides enrichment programs that encourage social interaction and fun, new experiences.

Located in the Human Resources Building at 1012 North Drive, Suite 5, the center accepts individuals age 55 and older. The programs include meals twice a week with a breakfast and a potluck once a month.

Community sponsors perform monthly health checks, exercise classes are offered three times a week, along with a yoga class.

Recreational activities include games, crochet, knitting, cards, and dominoes, gardening, and crafts during the week.

The center has a pool table, lending library and treadmills, plus weekly time for fellowship. Occasional field trips are offered so members could visit an interesting town or see a new sight.

Call 254-547-6022. It is open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

HARKER HEIGHTS

The Harker Heights Senior Recreation Program is designed for ages 50 and up. Most activities are held at the city’s Recreation Center at 307 Miller’s Crossing.

Seniors enjoy taking monthly day trips, playing Granny Basketball, Pinochle, pickleball, “Stretchercise,” dancing, playing cards and getting crafty with art classes.

Call 254-953-5683.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Armed Services YMCA programs are for all ages Area residents would do well to follow the social media accounts of the Armed Services YMCA in Harker Heights, since there’s always something new and fun going on.

The YMCA is known for its summer, day and specialty camps, but it also offfers co-ed adult leagues for volleyball, basketball and pickleball.

Another noteworthy local program is the Before and After School Child Care Program, which runs at many schools in the Killeen, Copperas Cove, Lampasas, Florence and Belton school districts.

That’s not the only child-related program that is popular: try one of their child-friendly classes. Page Turners, Peewee Picasso, ballet and Lego Builders are just a few of the classes for kids in the fall of 2024.

The Armed Services YMCA Killeen also provides child care during Thanksgiving, Christmas and Spring Break. Financial assistance is available for all child care programs.

Several children and ASYMCA employees put a pie in the face of the Lillian Bruner during the Back to School Healthy Kids Day in July.

A program center is at 100 E. Beeline in Harker Heights for preschool age and up, which provides a safe place for children to enjoy activities, field trips and programs. Adjacent to the program center is the ASYMCA Aquatic Center that includes a swimming pool and spray pad that opens during the summer months and is open to the public.

The ASYMCA also offers Kids Night Out, which gives parents an opportunity to enjoy a night out while their children are in a safe and nurturing environment for an evening, offering activities for ages 6 months to 13 years old.

The nonprofit organization is known throughout the world for its fitness centers. The Harker Heights Wellness Center, 110 Mountain Lion Road, is a 54,000-square-foot facility and open seven days a week. It has a heated 10lane lap pool, warm water therapy pool, 7,000-square-foot fitness floor, group exercise classes, personal training, child watch, basketball court, indoor running track, swim lessons and a café. Another partner, Seton Medical Center Harker Heights, provides outpatient physical, occupational and speech therapy.

To find out more, call 254-690-9622, or go to www.killeen.asymca.net. The ASYMCA was established during the Civil War to support service members and their families.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Arts abound in Central Texas with local theaters

Whether a person is enjoying good times, enduring hard times or anything in between, there’s always a place for the performing arts. Theater, concerts and symphonies are a vibrant part of life in Central Texas, where residents can enjoy exciting shows at local nonprofit community-based venues.

CENTRAL TEXAS THEATRE

Central Texas Theatre, which used to be known as Vive Les Arts Theatre, was founded in 1976 and is considered a premier community theater.

Jami Salter, who was a teacher for three decades, is the VLA’s executive director. “We’ve always been committed to producing current works that are in line with what’s just coming off Broadway,” she said.

Starting soon on the Main Stage is an “infamous tale,” “Sweeny Todd,” which will start its run on Oct. 25-27, and again Nov. 1-3. Next on the theater’s playlist will be “The Drowsy Chaperone,” which will debut Feb. 7-9, 2025, followed by a second run Feb. 14-16.

Central Texas Theatre also offers workshops to give folks an opportunity to hone their skills in dance, voice, improv, auditions and a variety of technical skills such as lighting and costume design.

The 400-seat theater has a proscenium stage and is equipped with state-of-theart lighting and audio instruments and large TVs in the theater and lobby. Funding comes from a variety of sources, like the City of Killeen’s hotel and motel taxes, grants from the Texas Commission on the Arts, season memberships, fundraisers and contributions from local businesses.

It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so all contributions are tax-deductible.

Central Texas Theatre is at 3401 S. W.S. Young Drive. For more information, call 254-526-9090 or go to www.vlakilleen.org.

THE TEMPLE CIVIC THEATRE

The Temple Civic Theatre has staged entertaining, family-friendly performances for decades. During that time, more than 300 productions have appeared on the main stage. Founded as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation

Movie theaters Call for show times and hours of operation.

REGAL-KILLEEN STADIUM 14 2501 E. Central Texas Expressway, Killeen 254-953-3991 CINEMARK AT MARKET HEIGHTS 201 E. Central Texas Expressway, Suite 100, Harker Heights 254-690-4581 CINERGY CINEMAS 402 Constitution Drive, Copperas Cove 254-542-3861 THE BELTONIAN THEATRE 219 E. Central Ave., Belton 254-9831-3161 GRAND AVENUE THEATRE 2809 Oakmark Drive, Belton 254-939-5000 CINEMARK TEMPLE AND XD 4501 S. General Bruce Drive, Temple 254-773-8497 LAST DRIVE-IN PICTURE SHOW 2912 S. State Highway 36, Gatesville 254-865-8445 in 1965, the theater originally worked under the Cultural Activities Center until becoming its own entity in 1974.

In 1977, it built its own theater — an 11,000-square-foot facility with a 228seat auditorium that offers patrons an excellent view from every seat.

TCT also offers a youth program for kids ages 7-18. The theater is at 2413 S. 13th St., Temple. Call 254-778-4751 or go to templecivictheatre.com for more information. Earlier this year, the TCT Guild was relaunched in order “to support the theater through fundraising and outreach,” according to TCT.

TABLEROCK

A true Central Texas original, Tablerock in Salado is famous for its outdoor venues such as the Goodnight

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Amphitheater. The nonprofit’s largest theater production is “Salado Legends,” an epic musical/historical drama with a cast and crew of more than 100 people, plus livestock, pyrotechnics, and lots of singing and dancing. “Salado Legends” is a summertime treat for many families, with the 32nd annual production set for July and August, 2025.

A Halloween classic is the annual “Fright Trail." With the help of tons of volunteers, a guide takes visitors on a half-mile walk through scenes from Dracula, Frankenstein and Phantom of the Opera, with excerpts from Edgar Allen Poe. The 32nd annual production of Charles Dickens “A Christmas Carol” is coming up in December.

The nine-acre Tablerock space is at Royal Street and Tablerock Road in Salado. Call 254-421-3903 or go to tablerock.org for information.

ORCHESTRAL SOCIETY

The Central Texas Orchestral Society offers performances by internationally known artists, most recently by classical pianist Joyce Yang earlier in October.

In 2025, folks can look forward to concerts by Little Joe Hernandez y La Familia in February and The Texas Tenors in March. CTOS, which is part of Temple’s Cultural Activities Center, also provides a venue where patrons are able to closely interact with artists both before and after concerts. Performances usually take place at Temple’s Azalee Marshall Cultural Activities Center at 3011 N. Third St., Temple. Call 254-7739926, email cac.ctos@gmail.com or go to cacarts.org/ctos for more information.

TEMPLE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The Temple Symphony Orchestra has been a staple in Central Texas for nearly three decades. Conductor Beau Benson also serves as the artistic director.

All performances, except the Van Cliburn Recital, occur at the Mary Alice Marshall Performing Arts Center at Temple College. The Recital is held at the Sue and Frank Mayborn Performing Arts Center at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton. For tickets and more information, call 254-778-6683 or go to templesymphony.org.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Bell County Museum in Belton keeps area’s history alive The Bell County Museum is a popular tourist attraction and a fun place to learn about Texas history.

The 16,000-square-foot facility in downtown Belton has permanent and temporary exhibits and educational programs for students, families, and adults of all ages.

The museum owns more than 12,000 objects related to Bell County and Central Texas, regularly rotating artifacts and exhibits. They also host events, big and small, throughout the year, including Parent’s Day Out and Homeschool Days, summer camps and even a Victorian Lemonade Party in May. Permanent exhibits focus on the history and prehistory of Bell County.

The five permanent collections are the Bell County History Exhibit, Gault Prehistoric Site Exhibit, Marshall Family Cabin, Moustache Teacup Collection and the Miniature House Collection.

“The Gault Project: An Adventure in Time” is a permanent exhibit featuring large murals, discovery drawers, microscopes and a film funded by the Texas Historical Foundation. People also can sign up for tours of the famous Bell County archaeology site.

The museum also rotates new traveling exhibits every two to three months to provide new and engaging exhibits, along with permanent ones, all blending regional with national interests.

Call 254-933-5243 or go to www. bellcountymuseum.org for more information or to become a Friend of the Museum. Friends receive gift shop discounts, invitations to exhibit openings, and a North American Reciprocal Museum membership, with free admission to over 1,120 museums across the country.

The museum, at 201 N. Main St., is open noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.

Voice actor Scott Innes records a voice message as Scooby-Doo on a fan’s phone during the Bell County Comic Con at the Cadence Bank Center in Belton.

Cadence Bank Center hosts Central Texas State Fair and other events of all sizes One of the prime venues for a variety of events in the area is the Cadence Bank Center, located on Loop 121 along I-35 in Belton. Livestock events are a popular attraction, which is why the center touts its air-conditioned equestrian and livestock complex with 220,000 square feet of area that can seat around 1,000 people.

The Cadence Bank Center includes a performance arena, warm up arena, bar and grill, concourse and stock pens.

The center is the home of the Central Texas State Fair, which marked its 37th year in September. The center has been the site of big-name concerts such as Willie Nelson, Casting Crowns, Foreigner, Bone Thugs N Harmony, ZZ Top and Alan Jackson. The center also hosts rodeos, trade shows, conferences and more.

Built in 1987 and named the Bell

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County Expo Center, the county-owned facility hosts up to 400 events annually.

The main arena, which seats about 8,000 people in concert seating, is the site of rodeos, horse shows, concerts and conventions of all types. It hosts area school graduations each spring.

The center was renamed the Cadence Bank Center in 2023.

Musical acts include big-name rock, country, Christian and rhythm and blues groups. Other events include circuses and arts and crafts shows.

The Central Texas State Fair is a major attraction on Labor Day weekend, and draws 20,000 to 30,000 people. Other facilities include the assembly hall that can seat 800 people. It is used for banquets, trade shows and other events.

For booking or more information, go to www.cadencebankcenter.com or call 254-933-5353.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Killeen Civic and Conference Center offers space for events The Killeen Civic and Conference Center is a multi-functional and accessible meeting space with a comfortable and flexible floor plan capable of hosting public and private events of any size.

The Conference Center, at 3601 S. W.S. Young Drive, boasts 64,000 square feet of space, and offers a variety of rooms to accommodate intimate parties and theater-style seating for up to 2,000 people. A large ballroom can be arranged for banquet seating, up to 1,000 guests, or 100 to 750 in smaller spaces.

The 3,500-square-foot Special Events Room is an elegant semi-round room and can accommodate up to 125 people banquet seating, has floor-to-ceiling windows, and crystal chandeliers.

The Executive Board Room offers sophistication with a large granite table, and comfortable leather chairs. A grand lobby and full, commercial kitchen ensures that the needs of all types of events are met.

Technology is embedded throughout

A dinosaur walks the aisles during the 2024 Giganticon at the Killeen Civic and Convention Center.

the complex and provides several attractive capabilities, including internet-connected rooms and Wi-Fi access, video-conferencing media projectors, smart TV connections and sound.

The conference center complex anchors the city’s community engagement events, which is also home to the Special Events Center with 53,000 square feet capable of hosting auctions, food drives, community garage sales and more. The Killeen Rodeo Arena Grounds hosts the city’s annual PRCA Rodeo event in May and can also host other outdoor events. In addition, the complex proudly features the Nov. 5, 2009, Fort Hood Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Korean Pagoda and Community Garden.

Staff are experienced and ready to help with scheduling, room layouts, and event details — everything you would expect from an event facility to make your special occasion successful.

Go to KilleenCivicCenter.com for more information or call 254-501-3888.

You may also visit KilleenWedding. com for wedding venue information at both the Killeen Civic and Conference Center and the Killeen Arts and Activity Center.

Mayborn Science Theater features 60-foot screen The Mayborn Science Theater, located on the campus of Central Texas College in Killeen, is a fun — and educational — local entertainment option for families.

The facility features state-of-the-art technology for projecting images on its 60-foot domed screen for an immersive experience. Patrons can watch films and laser light shows that combine 3-D graphics, laser-generated colors and 15,000 watts of digitally reproduced sound.

Shows are offered on Saturdays along with matinee options on Wednesdays and most holidays.

The Mayborn Science Theater is a great destination for field trips, special events and birthday parties. Groups of up to 180 people may reserve the theater for private showings, meetings or functions.

Annual memberships are available and include free admission to shows, members-only invites to premieres, special screenings and events, guest passes and discounted or free admissions to more than 250 museums, ASTC science centers, arboretums and aquaria across the country.

Learn more about tickets and show times by calling 254-526-1800 or going to www.starsatnight.org.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Municipal parks and rec programs have plenty to offer

KILLEEN

Killeen has a hike and bike trail that is six miles long and includes a pedestrian bridge over Nolan Creek. It extends from South W.S. Young Drive to East Avenue G in downtown Killeen.

It is one of the fitness experiences that Killeen Recreation Services has to offer. There are 20 parks throughout the city, including five community parks and 15 neighborhood parks, an athletic complex and swimming pools.

The department also provides art, fitness and dance classes.

Five community parks — Conder Park, Lions Club Park, Community Center Complex, Long Branch Park and Fowler Park — are heavily used with events.

Two hike and bike trails, including the 1.4-mile Lions Club Park Hike and Bike Trail, are part of the region’s long-range vision to build a series of trails linking Killeen’s nearby lakes: Belton and Stillhouse Hollow.

Athletic fields host many regional and national tournaments for youth and adult sports, including soccer, football and baseball.

In 2008, the city opened the Lions Club Park, a campus that houses the Family Recreation Center, Senior Center and Aquatics Center. It is at 1700 E. Stan Schlueter Loop.

The Family Recreation Center gym is called Tommie Harris Fitness Center after the Killeen native who starred in football for the Oklahoma Sooners and Chicago Bears. Harris donated almost $200,000 of gym equipment to the city.

For more information, call 254-501-6390.

A wide variety of learning opportunities are available at the Rosa Hereford Killeen Community Center at 2201 E. Veterans Memorial Blvd. Classes include salsa dance for beginners, yoga, intermediate belly dancing, smooth cool line dancers, low-impact aerobics, kids Zumba, tai chi, oil painting, American ninjutsu, adult self defense and taekwondo. For schedules, go to KilleenTexas.gov.

HARKER HEIGHTS

Harker Heights Parks and Recreation has plenty of options for all ages with its

Children play touch football at Lions Club Park.

long list of facilities and programs.

After creating an adaptive sports program in 2010, Harker Heights Parks and Recreation continues to provide a diverse set of activities for groups and individuals from children to adults.

Harker Heights Ability Sports is for youth with physical and visual disabilities and children with mental impairments, who want to participate in athletics.

There are also free adaptive sports programs for disabled residents, including wheelchair basketball, hand cycling and adaptive rock climbing.

The programs also include wheelchair archery and bocce.

Community Park houses eight baseball and softball fields, a batting cage, a concession stand, walking trail, covered playground, picnic tables and more. Other facilities include the 4,300-square-foot Activities Center at 400 Indian Trail and the Harker Heights Community Park at 1501 E. Farm-toMarket 2410.

The Recreation Center at 307 Miller’s Crossing houses the Parks and Recreation Department offices, which is where residents can sign up for sports leagues or other recreation programs.

It is also the location for activities like yoga, hapkido, taekwondo, ballet and Zumba.

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Among the youth sports leagues available to residents are winter soccer and basketball, spring baseball/softball and volleyball in the summer. Adults have their own activities, including yearround softball.

Harker Heights’ most well known park is just down the street from the Recreation Center on Miller’s Crossing.

Carl Levin Park comprises 35 acres and features picnic tables, grills, a basketball court, a walking and jogging trail, playground equipment, an outdoor pool, exercise stations, a fishing pond, a 40-by-60-foot pavilion, gazebo and amphitheater.

Other parks under Harker Heights Parks and Recreation Department include Kern Field, Kern Park, Cardinal Park, Booker Park and Purser Family Park, which features a disc golf course.

COPPERAS COVE

Copperas Cove owns and operates seven parks. South Park offers a hike and bike trail, swimming pool, splash pad for kids, two sand volleyball courts and two youth soccer fields.

Ogletree Gap Park offers plenty of acreage for walking and exploring.

The City Park Complex is an 88-acre park. The complex offers picnic areas, children’s playscapes, soccer fields, baseball and softball fields, basketball and volleyball courts and an Olympicsized swimming pool with a diving well, circular slide, mushroom fountain and a duck pond. The city maintains tennis courts at Martin Walker and Mae Stevens Elementary schools, Turkey Creek Activity Center and Copperas Cove High School.

Youth can register for cheerleading, tackle and flag football, boys and girls soccer, volleyball and track.

Adult sports include softball and flag football.

The department hosts the Polar Bear Swim event every January and Fishing in the Park in February.

Additionally, the department puts on its annual Easter Egg RoundUp and annual Christmas tree lighting.

The Copperas Cove Parks and Recreation Department can be reached at 254-542-2719 or go to ccpard.com.

SPORTS & RECREATION

Stillhouse Hollow, Belton lakes offer fishing, boating

Area residents have long enjoyed fishing, pitching tents, boating, swimming and grilling meat — and all five activities are occurring on area lakes.

Run by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the facilities at Belton Lake and Stillhouse Hollow Lake include recreational activities at campsites, boat ramps, swimming areas and much more.

Campsites cost between $12 for primitive tents-only sites to $24 to $40 for RV sites and $30 for the screen shelters.

These prices are subject to change.

Federal discount passes are accepted.

Day-use fees are $5 per car per day.

And these fees can change as well.

People can register for campsites early by calling 877-444-6777, going online to Recreation.gov or in person at any gate house.

Both lakes are known for bass fishing.

Tournament anglers enjoy fishing both lakes as do recreational anglers. Boating recreation, including water skiing and wakeboarding, are also popular activities on the lakes.

STILLHOUSE HOLLOW LAKE

Stillhouse Hollow Lake has seven areas for recreational use, most of which include day use and camping areas, hiking and horse trails, swimming areas, volleyball courts and horseshoe pits.

A boat speeds past the exposed shoreline near River’s Bend Park at Stillhouse Hollow Lake.

Stillhouse Park is a day-use-only park and has several picnic areas and a swimming area. While the marina is open year-round, the day-use portion of the park is closed between Dec. 1 and March 1. Union Grove is a popular camping site on Stillhouse Hollow.

Call 254-939-2461 for information. For camping reservations, call 877-444-6777.

BELTON LAKE

There are 14 areas for recreational use on Belton Lake. Much like Stillhouse, they include campsites, boat docks and parks. Temple Park has the largest day

Fort Cavazos offers many recreation opportunities for soldiers, families

Whether you want to sit back and enjoy the game, burn a few calories, feel the rush of competition again or enjoy some fun with the kids, the Fort Cavazos Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation department has something for you.

The MWR enhances quality of life by providing recreation and numerous services designed to equal those of their civilian counterparts and encourages growth and a feeling of self-reliance within the military community.

November brings about Anniversary Bingo to celebrate 25 years of the Community Events and Bingo Center. The event is open to all Department of Defense ID card holders.

Those new to the area are welcome to a soldier and family newcomers orientation presented by III Corps at the Lone

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use in the area.

Cedar Ridge Park is a popular site.

It contains a marina, a large group camping area that will accommodate 12 RVs, about 68 regular campsites and eight screened-in shelters that campers who do not have tents can use.

BLORA — the Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area — on Sparta Road, six miles off Loop 121 North in Belton, is run by Fort Cavazos’ Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Department. Call 254-287-4907 or go to Cavazos.armymwr.com/lake_ activities.htm for more information.

Star Conference Center. This is a free seminar for spouses with free on-site child care and free lunch, and service members may obtain more information at the Fort Cavazos Installation Reception Center, Building 16008 or by calling 254-368-1768.

Fort Cavazos offers fee-based spin and yoga fitness classes. Spin classes are offered at the Abrams Physical Fitness Center, and yoga classes may be taken at the Applied Functional Fitness Center and Starker Physical Fitness Center.

Additionally, a “Move’N’Groove” class combining rhythmic aerobic dance moves with flexibility, balance and coordination is offered at Starker Physical Fitness Center.

Fort Cavazos MWR offers a variety of league and varsity sports opportunities in bowling, basketball, soccer, softball, volleyball, golf, racquetball, flag football and even roller derby. Go to cavazos.armymwr.com to learn more.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

It’s always a great time to play a round of golf

For those who enjoy golfing, there are several quality courses in the area.

Stonetree Golf Club was built in 1970 and renovated in 2005. Formerly operated by the city of Killeen, management was contracted out to Billy Casper Golf in 2019. BCG was rebranded as Indigo Golf Partners and acquired by Troon at the start of 2021.

That gives Stonetree patrons access to the Troon Rewards program.

The layout expands over rolling terrain with a wide variety of trees and several small lakes with fountains.

Golfers face a good combination of tee shots at this course, with both narrow and wide fairways. There are five sets of tees to provide a challenging, but fair test to golfers of all skill levels.

There is also a state-of-the-art practice facility, a double ended driving range a huge putting green and a short-game area. Make tee time reservations by calling 254-501-6575 or go to stonetreegc. com to download the app. Annual passes are also available. The address is 1600 Stonetree Drive, Killeen.

The Courses of Clear Creek is on Battalion Avenue on Fort Cavazos and is open to the public, though civilians will need to obtain a visitor’s pass at the main gate. To receive a pass, visitors must have a valid ID and, if driving onto the post, vehicle registration and proof of insurance. Passes issued are often

Linda Dixon prepares for a tee shot during a round of golf at Stonetree Golf Club in Killeen.

good for a year. Visitors can also apply online for a pass from their computer or mobile device at https://pass.aie.army. mil/steps/branch_selection. Visitors will receive a background check and

enter their information, including a driver’s license or passport number. If approved, they can proceed to a kiosk at Visitor Control Center for a pass.

The course is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and severe weather days. The pro shop can be reached at 254-287-4130.

Individual clinics with a golf professional are available, as well as specialized clinics designed for junior golfers and first-time golfers. The course has a 35-person driving range, shortgame area and practice green. The 4,500-foot clubhouse has a full snack bar serving breakfast, lunch and drinks.

Annual passes are available. Full and half-sets of clubs are available for rent.

Hills of Cove Golf Course is an 18-hole facility at 1408 Golf Course Road in Copperas Cove. It is owned and operated by the City of Copperas Cove.

The original nine holes were built in 1972. A second nine was added in 1999. The par-71 layout winds its way through the rolling terrain of northeast Copperas Cove and features five par-3s.

Call 254-547-2606. Reserve tee times at copperascovetx.gov/golf_course/.

The course offers golf lessons, a full service pro shop, beer sales, lighted driving range, grill and a fleet of 40 golf carts. Hills of Cove is open from dawn to dusk daily, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Strike up some family fun — go bowling at local lanes Killeen and Fort Cavazos both offer options for bowling.

The Killeen Bowlerama has been around since the 1950s and boasts a loyal customer base. The center hosts many leagues for adults, youth and senior bowlers. At 922 N. 38th St., the 24-lane center also hosts the Killeen High School and Harker Heights High School bowling clubs.

Hallmark Lanes has been open for more than 30 years and has hosted the Professional Bowlers Association for more than two decades. The PBA Killeen Southwest Open brings the

greatest bowlers in the world together for a three-day event that includes several competitions.

Located at 4203 Shawn Drive, Hallmark is modern and up-todate after some remodeling work.

Remodeled restrooms, large-screen televisions at lane side and a newly paved parking lot are just a few of the renovations. The center also installed synthetic lane surfaces.

Hallmark also offers leagues for adults, youth and seniors and sponsors the Ellison, Copperas Cove, Shoemaker high schools and Memorial Christian

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Academy bowling clubs.

Phantom Warrior Lanes is at Building 49010 Clear Creek Road at Fort Cavazos and is the newest of the centers. The 48-lane center is open to all activeduty and retired military, government employees and their spouses.

The center hosts all types of leagues and is a local stop for the Traveling Classic Bowling Association. The Greater Killeen-Fort Cavazos USBC Bowling Association conducts numerous tournaments throughout the year and rotates them between the centers.

SPORTS & RECREATION

Swimming pools, water parks offer relief from heat Few things in life are a sure thing, but pool and splash pad time during Central Texas summers can be counted on.

Many local pools have lifeguards and aquatic staff on duty. Daily admission and season passes are available, with lessons offered at some pools. Memorial Day to Labor Day is prime pool time in the region.

KILLEEN

Family Aquatic Center at Lions Club Park, 1800 E. Stan Schlueter Loop. The 10,360-square-foot multi-use pool also features a 25-meter lap pool and three water slides. Call 254-501-6538.

Long Branch Park Pool is at 1101 Branch Drive. Call 254-690-7946.

Right next to Long Branch is the Junior Service League Spray Pad, which offers a zero-entry area with water features for young children. Call 254-501-6538.

The Family Aquatic Center, Long Branch Pool, and splash pad open Memorial Day Weekend for each pool season.

HARKER HEIGHTS

Carl Levin City Park Pool, 400 Miller’s Crossing. Call 254-953-1300. The outdoor pool opened in 1999 and holds 135,000 gallons of water. The pool opens on Memorial Day weekend and is customarily open until mid-August.

YMCA Spray ’n’ Play is zero-depth with a 7,000-square-foot spray and play park, 901 S. Ann Blvd. Call 254-680-1700.

COPPERAS COVE

Copperas Cove has two pools open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For more information, call 254-542-2719.

City Park Pool, 1200 W. Avenue B. South Park Pool, 2602 Dennis St. This pool area has a splash pad for youngsters.

BELTON

Belton does not operate a public swimming pool, but two splash pads are popular with residents. Splash pad season runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For more information, call the Parks and Recreation Department at 254-933-5860.

Harris Community Splash Pad is at 312

Families cool off at the Junior Service League spray pad in Long Branch Park in Killeen.

N. Alexander St. South Wall Tiger Park Splash Pad is at 1895 S. Wall St.

FORT CAVAZOS

Fort Cavazos is dotted with swimming pools all over the post. All nine swimming pools on post may be used by all active duty, National Guard and Reservist, retired military, family members and Department of Defense civilians and contract workers. Patrons will need to show ID and may sign in two guests.

Abrams Indoor Pool, at the intersection of 62nd Street and Support Avenue, Building 23001. Call 254-287-4648.

Comanche Pool, 52015 Tank Destroyer Boulevard, Building 52932, by the Comanche Youth Center. Call 254-2877544.

Martin Pool, T.J. Mills Boulevard, Building 137, next to Fort Hood National Bank. Call 254-287-5037.

Patton Pool, at the intersection of 24th Street and Tank Destroyer Boulevard, Building 5774. Call 254-285-5837.

Thomas Pool, Building 193 on 37th Street. Call 254-287-8637.

1st Cavalry Division Pool, Hell on

Wheels Avenue, Building 2479. Call 254618-7336.

42nd Street Pool, Old Ironsides Avenue, Building 1676. Call 254-287-4094.

13th Sustainment Command Pool, Support Avenue, Building 2239. Call 254287-3689.

West Fort Hood Pool, Headquarters Avenue, Building 91070. Call 254-288-9838.

LAMPASAS

Hanna Springs Swimming Pool Complex offers a 7,000 square-foot swimming pool and a 2,300 square-foot bath house. It is located at 501 E. North Ave. Call 512-5564048 or 512-556-6831 to reach the city’s parks and recreation department.

Hancock Springs Free Flow Swim Area is the oldest, spring-fed pool in Texas. It is at Hancock Park, U.S. 281, in Lampasas.

GATESVILLE

The city's parks and recreation department operates a 6,200-square-foot swimming pool and a splash pad.

City Pool is at 300 S. Eighth St. and will be opening again in May. The city’s Splash Park is in Raby Park at 910 Bridge St. Call 254-865-4012 to reach the parks department.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Roll into area’s skate parks and skating rinks SKATE PARKS

The Mickey’s Convenience Store Skate Park is in Long Branch Park at 1101 Branch Drive in Killeen.

The concrete pad is about 9,000 square feet and includes 14 obstacles, a lighted pavilion, restrooms and landscaping.

The obstacles include a 200-square-foot bowl with railing and ledges, multiple quarter pipes and a 360-degree concrete centerpiece with rail and stairs.

The park also sports several objects with steel-reinforced edges for grinding, including planter boxes, benches and a picnic table.

The lighting also makes night skating possible at the facility.

Killeen also boasts a skate park in Conder Park, on the corner of Veterans Memorial Boulevard and Conder Street.

The facility, managed by the Killeen Parks and Recreation Department, has been recently renovated. Call 254-501-8889 for more information.

Fort Cavazos also has two skate parks, including one at the Bronco Youth Center on Tank Destroyer Boulevard. That facility sports a mini ramp, quarter pipes, a fun box and rails. The other is between Abrams Physical Fitness Center and Robertson Blood Center.

Temple also has a skate park at Seventh Street and Avenue B.

SKATING RINKS

Texas Skateland, at 205 E. Cox Drive in Harker Heights, is the oldest continuously operated skating rink in the area.

The facility is currently undergoing renovations following a fire earlier this year. Owners plan to reopen it in the near future.

Other local rinks are 254 Kascade, at 4400 Fort Hood St. in Killeen and Wheels Family Skating Center at 814 N. 31st St. in Temple.

Improve skills at area gun ranges FORT CAVAZOS

Fort Cavazos has one open range and one skeet range. Both are open to the public, but all weapons must be registered at the visitor’s center before they can be brought on post. The skeet range is at the Sportsmen’s Center at 1937 Rod & Gun Loop.

The range is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

The range is closed for the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Call 254-532-4552.

KILLEEN

The Gun Range at 2401 Fort Hood Street in Killeen, is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday through Saturday, and 1 to 8 p.m. on Sunday. The cost is $30 for an all-day pass with a charge of $15 for an additional shooter, and no reservations are needed. Firearm rentals vary between $15 and $25. An annual membership is $64.99 a month plus tax with a one-time enrollment fee of $100.

The facility includes 12 handgun lanes, four rifle lanes, a state-of-the-art simulator, a TV lounge of live feed of those shooting in the handgun range, a snack bar, a retail section and on-duty gunsmith. Sign-up is available in-person or online for classes including license to carry, beginning to advance handgun proficiencies and rifle reloading.

Mountain Creek Gun Range, 205 Mountain Creek Road in Killeen, is closed on Wednesdays but open all other weekdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The indoor facility has 20 lanes and offers NRA and LTC classes. Gun and ammo sales are done on site and rentals are available. An all day shooting pass is $20 and there is special pricing available. Call 254-793-3070.

FLORENCE

Lonestar Range & Academy, 10000 N. Highway 183 in Florence, is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays. The cost ranges from $18 a day for adults to $13 for children age 17 or younger. An annual membership is available for $300, and

70 | CENTRAL TEXAS NEWCOMERS | FALL 2024

Improve your aim at one of the area’s gun ranges.

a biannual membership costs $200 for six months. There are discounts for seniors, and TSRA and NRA members.

The facility offers a 100-yard rifle range and a 25-yard pistol range. Group events are available, and the training academy has classes for a variety of subjects. Call 512-516-7640.

COPPERAS COVE

E.J.I. Firearms at 2901 Deer Flat Drive in Copperas Cove, is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and costs $20 plus tax per shooter.

Gun rentals are available. Hearing protection, safety glasses, staplers and seating and table are provided. There are five pistol ranges from 3 to 25 yards and one rifle lane at 100 yards. Call 254547-8433.

GATESVILLE

One in the Chamber Sports Range is at 717 County Road 148 in Gatesville, is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m Sunday. The range offers 10 pistol lanes up to 16 yards and 25 rifle lanes up to 600 yards. The range offers courses. Call 254-216-1443.

Holley Gun Range, 1502 Bald Knob Road, Gatesville, is open seven days a week. It is open from noon to 7 p.m. on Monday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday. Follow the gun range on Facebook or call 254-292-8941.

Hicksville Gun Range, 225 Dusty Lane in Gatesville, is open 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. seven days a week, weather permitting.

The range offers pistol and rifle ranges.

Go to hicksvillegunrange.com/default. html or call 254-223-1362 or 254-679-1362.

SPORTS & RECREATION

Hunting, hiking opportunities abound in Central Texas Belton and Stillhouse Hollow lakes are popular places to catch fish, whether competing in tournaments or angling for leisure. There are plenty of small lakes at Fort Cavazos at which to cast your lines, as well.

on bag limits and antler restrictions.

You will also want to make sure that you are only hunting during the legal season, and that information is in the magazine.

Feral hogs can be hunted at any time with no bag limits. The website for Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Annual is tpwd.texas.gov and the site will be helpful to make sure you hunt in each animal’s legal season.

HUNTING

Many local hunters lease land from ranchers. If you are looking for a lease or a group to join, you can check the classified sections of the Killeen Daily Herald and look online at websites such as TexasHuntingForum.com.

Public hunting land is available at wildlife management areas around the local lakes. Anyone who chooses to hunt on public land is required to have proof of a hunter’s education class.

A Public Lands Hunting Permit is required and can be purchased at local license retailers of the Texas Parks and Wildlife office. Once you purchase this permit, you will receive a map booklet detailing all the public lands administered by Texas Parks

A family uses a trail at Chalk Ridge Falls Park.

and Wildlife. Hunting is often ample at Fort Cavazos. A Fort Cavazos hunting permit is required and there are specific requirements governing access to these lands. Check with the Sportsmen’s Center at https://cavazos.iSportsman.net or call 254-532-4552 for more information.

Whitetail deer hunting is the most popular type of hunting in the area.

Be sure to check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Annual magazine, which is available wherever hunting licenses are sold, for specific regulations

HIKING

Hiking opportunities are available at Mother Neff State Park and Chalk Ridge Falls Park Trail.

Mother Neff State Park is at 1680 State Highway 236 in Moody. Daily entrance fees are $2 for adults, and children get in free. For more information, call 254-8532389 or go to tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ mother-neff.

Chalk Ridge Falls Park Trail is a 2.5-mile, heavily trafficked, out-and-back trail at 5600 FM 1670 in Belton. Call 254-939-2461 for information.

KILLEEN DAILY HERALD | KDHNEWS.COM I 71

MEDIA

Killeen Daily Herald a thriving multimedia company More than 134 years after its founding, the Killeen Daily Herald continues to provide the latest news and information for a rapidly growing community.

Since its first publication in 1890, the Herald has evolved into an awardwinning multimedia company that is recognized as a vital resource across the Central Texas region. The awardwinning media company offers a variety of products across a full range of platforms, from traditional print publications to the Herald’s website, KDHnews.com, as well as social media platforms such as Facebook and X. In addition to its daily print and online editions, the Herald produces several niche publications, special sections and digital services.

The newspaper’s online platforms continue to draw a growing number of readers — an average of more than 1.74 million each month — from around the region, and around the world. The Herald also has reached 52,000 followers on Facebook — a fast-growing platform for accessing the media company’s news articles, photos and videos.

The scope of the Herald’s regional news coverage extends far beyond the immediate Killeen-Fort Cavazos area.

FME News Service — a joint collaboration of the Herald and its sister paper, the Temple Daily Telegram — brings readers a broader spectrum of news, sports and information spanning the coverage areas of both publications.

In addition, the Associated Press, The Washington Post and The Texas Tribune news services provide well-written news and commentary on state, national and world events to Central Texas readers.

Through the KDH News app, Herald subscribers can have instant access to the latest news, sports and information.

The app can be downloaded for free at the Apple App Store or on Google Play.

In addition, the Herald’s text alert system provides readers with the latest breaking local news via text message to mobile devices. The Herald offers streaming coverage of selected events via Facebook Live, increasing reader accessibility and engagement.

The Herald’s commitment to timely,

A newspaper is printed on the Herald’s press.

thorough and accurate reporting of local, regional and state news — along with compelling photography and creative design — has earned the newspaper an array of prestigious journalism awards in recent years.

The Herald has been recognized as Newspaper of the Year for its circulation category three times since 2011. The honor is given by the Texas Managing Editors at the group’s annual conference. Since 2017, the Herald has garnered more than 100 individual and team awards from Texas APME — now known as Texas Managing Editors.

The Herald also earned eight prestigious awards for its writing, page design, photography and online live coverage from the Texas Press Association earlier this year.

In addition to its award-winning daily newspaper, the KDH Media Group continues to produce three weekly publications to better serve specific audiences within the Central Texas community.

The Fort Cavazos Herald, published each Wednesday since March 2004, provides soldiers and their families with in-depth news and information.

The Copperas Cove Herald, established in 2003, and the Harker Heights Herald, launched in 2010, both publish on Fridays, offering expanded coverage of news and events in their respective communities.

Another collaborative effort between the Temple Daily Telegram and the Killeen Daily Herald is Tex Appeal magazine, a publication about life and style in Central Texas. The magazine,

72 | CENTRAL TEXAS NEWCOMERS | FALL 2024

which publishes six times annually, features articles on food, fashion, health and people who make a difference throughout Central Texas.

The Herald’s website, KDHnews.com, offers subscribers access to the latest news and sports, plus classified ads, interactive forums, links and contact information, as well as videos, photo slide shows and blogs. Readers also can connect with the Herald via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Readers can stay on top of the latest political news and election information through the Herald’s Center for Politics site, KDHnews.com/centerforpolitics.

It features articles, candidate video interviews and election information.

Local prep sports fans can access KDHPressbox.com for expanded coverage, scores and sports information.

KDH Digital Services provides small businesses with management of online reputation and social media, mobile marketing consulting and other services dedicated to increased visibility and revenue maximization.

The Herald also provides area residents with an established, fullservice commercial printing operation, offering everything from business cards, programs and fliers, to banners and plaques.

“The newspaper continues to grow with Central Texas, both in print and online,” said Terry E. Gandy, the Herald’s vice president and general manager. “We’re very proud of the accomplishments of our news operation.”

The newspaper was established as The Killeen Herald in June 1890 by W.E. Bennett. J.T. Carter bought the paper in 1903. In 1953, communications pioneer Frank W. Mayborn bought the Herald and guided the newspaper for more than three decades until his death in 1987.

His wife, Sue Mayborn, assumed responsibilities as the owner, editor and publisher of both the Herald and the Telegram in 1987 and actively continues in that role today.

For print and digital subscriptions to the Herald, call 254-501-7400 or go to KDHnews.com.

ATTORNEY Carlson Law Firm

100 E Central Texas Expressway

Killeen, TX, 76541

www.carlsonattorneys.com

(254) 526-5688....................09

BANK SouthStar Bank

(254) 698-1800.......................50

BANQUET FACILITY L3 Coworking & Event Center

202 E Central Ave. Belton, TX, 76513 www.level3belton.com (254) 630-8753.......................17

BEAUTY Besos Aesthetics

416 N Gray Street Killeen, Texas, 76541 www.besosaesthetics.com/ (254)630-4056........................15

Yahweh Beauty Academy 431 N. 38th St. Killeen, TX, 76453

www.yahwehbeautyacademy.com

(254) 554-7771.......................53

BOAT DEALER Texas Boat World

303 E Central TX Expwy Harker Heights, TX, 76548 www.texasboatworld.com (254) 699-9151................... 63

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce

204 Robertson Ave #487 Copperas Cove, TX, 76522 www.copperascove.com (254) 547-7571....................06

Harker Heights Chamber of Commerce

552 E FM 2410 Suite B Harker Heights, TX, 76548 www.hhchamber.com (254) 699-4999....................65

CHURCHES Agape Cogic

3000 little Nolan Rd Killeen TX 7654 www.agapecogic.org (254) 680-7729....................20

Harker Heights Methodist Church

208 W Cardinal Ave. Harker Heights, TX 76548 www.hhumc.org (254) 699-6271....................49

St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church 2800 Trimmier Rd. Killeen, TX, 76542

www.stchriskilleen.com

(254) 634-7474....................19

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS American Legion 573

225 Cox Dr Harker Heights, TX 76548 facebook.com/legion.riders.509/ (254) 699-4348 .................... 61

Crossroads to Texas Quilt Guild

www.cttquiltguild.org ............ 57

COMMUNITY SERVICES City of Cedar Park

450 Cypress Creek Rd Bldg #1, Cedar Park, TX 78613 www.cedarparktexas.gov (512) 401-5000................... 03

Copperas Cove Economic Development

207 S 3rd St. Suite 200 Copperas Cove, TX, 76522 www.coveedc.com (254) 547-7874................... 61

DENTIST All Dental & Braces

All Dental & Braces/ Allstar Children’s Dentistry 7011 Indian Trail #C Harker Heights, TX, 76548

www.allstardentistry.com

(254) 698-0641....................31

Dental Images

120 W Central TX Expwy Killeen, TX, 76543 www.dentalimagestexas.com (254) 699-9444....................38

EDUCATION Central Texas College

6200 Central Texas Expressway Killeen, TX 76549 www.ctcd.edu (254) 526-7161....................08

Copperas Cove ISD

408 S. Main St. Copperas Cove, TX, 76522 www.ccisd.com (254) 547-1227....................35

Nolan Creek Academy

505 E Avenue C Belton, TX 76513 nolancreekschool.org (254) 939-4491....................37

Priority Charter Schools

405 S 2nd Street Killeen, TX 76541 www.prioritycharterschool.org (254) 499-4262........... 33 & 55

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

900 College Street Belton, TX 76513 www.umhb.edu (254) 295-6842....................29

ENTERTAINMENT Killeen Bowlerama

2520 Trimmier Rd. Ste 105 Killeen, TX, 76542 www.alldentaltx.com (254) 247-2020 ......................31

922 N 38th Street Killeen, TX 76543 www.killeenbowlerama.com

All Dental & Braces

Salado Museum

2710 S. Clear Creek Rd. Ste. 118 Killeen, TX, 76549 www.alldentaltx.com (254) 200-1893....................31

FINANCIAL SERVICES

DENTIST CONT.

(254) 699-5222....................67

423 S. Main St. Salado, TX, 76571 www.saladomuseum.org (254) 947-5232.................20

Lillie Aguero and Associates

116 N 4th Street Killeen, Texas, 76541 www.laguero-taxpro.com/

(254) 554-8736....................11

FUNERAL HOME Harper-Talasek Funeral Home

506 N. 38th St. Killeen, TX, 76543 www.harpertalasek.com

(254) 699-8200....................14

Harper-Talasek Funeral Home

503 N. Main Ave. Belton, TX, 76513 www.harpertalasek.com

(254) 939-2411....................14

Harper-Talasek Funeral Home

500 W Barton Ave Temple, TX, 76501 www.harpertalasek.com

(254) 773-4564....................14

Young’s Daughters Funeral Home

4235 U.S. Hwy 190 Temple, TX, 76501 www.youngsdaughters.com

(254) 401-1302....................71

HOME BUILDERS Keith Carothers Homes 3837 FM 2808 Kempner, TX, 76539

www.keithcarothershomes.com

(254) 542-6090.................40

HOME SERVICES AirMax

2768 Boys Ranch Rd. Kempner,Texas, 76539 (254) 547-5406.................17 AMERICA CONSTRUCTION & AMERICA ROOFING KILLEEN ....... (254) 213-7623 TEMPLE ....... (254) 773-7111 WACO .......... (254) 757-1625 ..........................................67

HOME SERVICES CONT. CWS Electrical

8945 Trimmier Road Killeen, Texas,76542

www.cws-services.com/ (512) 734-1798... Back Cover

Killeen Overhead Doors

1505 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Killeen, TX, 76543 www.killeenoverheaddoors.com (254) 690-3667.................06

Solar Centex

1901 E FM 2410 Harker Heights, TX, 76548 www.solarcentex.com (254) 393-1340.................51

HOSPITAL AdventHealth

2201 S Clear Creek Rd Killeen, TX, 76549 www.adventhealth.com

(254) 526-7523...... 58, 59, & Inside Back Cover

Baylor Scott & White

3801 Scott & White Drive Killeen, TX, 76543 Bswhealth.com (844) BSW-DOCS..............07

INSURANCE Allstate Ira Brand

2312 E Hwy 190 Copperas Cove,TX, 76522 agents.allstate.com/brandfinancial-services-copperascove-tx (254) 547-6300.................61

LANDSCAPING & NURSERY Grizzly’s Hidden Falls Nursery & Landscaping

1101 W US-190, Nolanville, TX 76559 hiddenfallsnurserykilleen.com (254) 698-6008 .................13

LOCKSMITH Pop-A-Lock POP-A-LOCK, SERVING KILLEEN, FT. CAVAZOS, COPPERAS COVE, HARKER HEIGHTS

www.popalockkilleen.com (254) 554-9966.................47

MEDICAL KidZ TherapEZE

1102 Winkler Ave Killeen, TX 76542 kidztherapeze.com (254) 634-8505................. 49

REAL ESTATE CONT. JWC Rentals

RENTALS Hunter Rentals

Dragon Lady Tattoos 217 W Veterans Memorial Killeen, TX, 76542 Harker Heights, TX 76548 Killeen, TX, 76549 www.jwcrentals.com www.mydragonlady.com www.hunterrentals.com (866) 686-5266............ 15 (254) 634-3311............ 71 (254) 699-2204..............57

3800 S WS Young Dr. #101

1503 W Stan Schlueter Loop

SPECIALTY STORE Linnemann Realty MORTGAGE 3402 S WS Young Dr, Carol’s Creations Killeen, TX 76542 www.linnemannrealty.com 509 S 2nd St SWBC Mortgage (254) 289-1810............ 47 Killeen, TX, 76541 4524 S WS Young Dr. (254) 628-8788..............56 Killeen, TX, 76543 Rinehart Real Estate www.swbcmortgage.com Continental Battery (254) 634-2822.....Inside Front Inspections 445 E Central Texas Expy 600 E CenTex Expy Cover Harker Heights, TX 76548 Killeen, TX, 76541 continentalbattery.com realestateinspection.net (254) 690-1186............ 32 (254) 634-2287..............19 PET SERVICES Soldiers of Real Estate 1613 South Fort Hood Street 4000 Bacon Ranch Rd. Killeen, TX 76542 Killeen, TX, 76542 Cherished Memories

(254) 317-7099.................53

El Centro Pet Medical Center

1202 S. W. S. Young Dr. Killeen, Texas, 76543 (254) 699-2425.................51

www.soldiersofrealestate.com

(254) 618-5140............ 45 RECREATION & LEISURE

Bell County Museum 201 N Main St. Belton, TX, 76513

REAL ESTATE

www.bellcountymuseum.org

Hustle House Realty

Texas Rangers Museum 100 Texas Ranger Trl Waco, TX 76706 www.texasranger.org (254) 750-8631..............23

329 E Avenue D Killeen, Texas, 76541 hustlehouserealty.com/ (254)630-4056..................14

SPECIALTY STORE CONT.

(254) 933-5243..............17

Kirbo’s Office Systems

617 E Veterans Memorial Killeen, TX, 76543 www.kirbos.com (254) 526-6182................ 56

Wells Laundry

315 38th St. Killeen, TX, 76543 www.wellslaundry.com (254) 953-4977................ 15

STORAGE FACILITY Big Red Barn Self Storage

1328 W Stan Schlueter Loop Killeen, TX, 76549 www.bigredbarnselfstorage.com

(254) 526-4848............ 67