The Freedom Ball is back in Waco with a special focus on America’s 250th anniversary, honoring active duty service members, veterans and Gold Star spouses. Kacie Birkes and Rebecca Barrera from the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce share what makes the 2026 gala different, how all six military branches will be recognized, details on the Missing Soldier Ceremony, and how you can get tickets and get involved.
From drone flights and E-sports to cooking classes and hip hop-inspired design, Waco’s new Bledsoe–Miller STEAM Center is reimagining summer learning. Executive Director Lindsey Helton and Transformation Waco’s Josh Wucher share how the center celebrated its first 100 days, what camps and low-cost programs are available for kids and adults, and how families can get involved through memberships and community support.
‘We The People’: Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary
Two third graders from Foster Elementary School in Riesel ISD started their own comic book series featuring a cartoon hot dog named Glizzy Man.
Marine Corps veteran Austin Parker, president of the McLennan County Veterans Association, joins KWTX@4's Justin Earley and Lauren Westbrook to share why it’s so important for civilians, families, and young people to take part in honoring fallen service members on Memorial Day. He walks through what to expect at Monday’s community-wide ceremony at the Doris Miller VA Medical Center in Waco, shares how local veterans’ groups work together year-round, and offers simple ways you can support their mission to serve Central Texas veterans and their families.
Serve up fun and give back. The Temple Children’s Museum is hosting its second annual pickleball tournament fundraiser at The Commonwealth in Temple. The fun begins with a kickoff party Friday, May 22 featuring food, drinks, and live music from Beau Heitmiller, followed by all-day tournament play Saturday, May 23. Executive Director Emily Smith shares how community support helps the museum continue serving local families—and how your participation directly fuels their mission.